DUKE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 
DURHAM, N. C. 


APPEAL TO THE CHURCH; 
BEING NS te ry 


LAIN STATEMENT OF FACTS 


IX THE 


° : kay 
MATES PENDING BETWEEN DR. HOBART WITH OTHERS, 
AND THE AUTHOR. 


By the Rev. CAVE JONES, AM.) 
of the Assistant Ministers of Trinity Chur 


- 


id Rae WITH 


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aN: APPENDIX, | ane | 


CONTAINING 


ij 
Risiaibicia OF THE CASE OF THE REY. « FELTUS< 
‘ UNDER HIS OWN HAND. 
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Doth our law judge any man before it hear him, and know what he doeth 
John ch, 1.0. 51. 


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_ NEW-YORK: F 
PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR. | 
1811. 
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THE following Production w 
its appearance earlier ; but was d ( 
ferred from time. to time, in the hope th t some 
circumstances might occur to render this step 


unnecessary. In order to produce so desirable an- 


event, a proposition was made by me, on the sug= 
gestion.of a mutual friend, to lay all matters de- 


pending before impartial gentlemen, to have a 


judgment passed upon the case ; which judgment 
Should be referred to by either party, as after cir- 
cumstances might require. This proposition, 
however, has been rejected. No other alterna- 
tive then remains to me, than to appear thus 
publicly before the Church; unless I will consent 
to sit down silently under the unjust \aspersions 
which are propagated against me\and others.— 
It is to be considered ther refore, inno other light, 
than as strictly a measure of self-defence. 


May Ast, 1811: 


P84 Rot a? 


. 
q° 


A 


PLAIN STATEMENT OF FACTS, 
ae 


IMPERIOUS circumstances seem to require, that the 
friends of the Church should be made acquainted with a variety 
of particulars, which, from motives of delicacy, and a regard 
to the peace of the Church, have been hitherto suppressed. 
While I have been suffering in secret, as will, I 2 aded, 
clearly be made to appear, reports have 
propagated with unparalleled industry, wh 
rious to my character; and that too, by 
injuries have been received. Prejudices t 
amilitating against the influence of my Ministr 
‘members of the congregations among whom I 
been led to hear me with distrust, and to view 
jaundiced eye. And my brethren in every part of the State 
have been taught to consider me as a person in * whom no 
confidence is to be placed,” according to the cant phrase in use, 
by which every one is cried down, who is not found yielding 
and submissive. A gentleman of considerable intercourse in 
the Church, who has had an opportunity of learning the 
sentiments of its members from different parts of the Diocese, 
has assured me, that to his knowledge, there is scarcely a 
Clergyman in the State, who does not come to this city with 
his mind prepossessed against me. And it is a fact, that the 
young men who have been studying for the ministry, and to 
whose instruction I have in common with others, devoted my 
days and nights; who have visited at my house, have been treated 
with affection, and who have been in the habit of applying to 
me as occasions might require, for direction, advice, and assist- 
“ance that these, as soon as they got into Orders, and for 
a short time before, have entirely broken off all intercourse, 

and have kept at a very respectful distance. Justice requires, 

that to this statement, I should make the exception of the 

Rev. Mr. David Moore, and the Rev. Mr. Powel. The 

former has met with no countenance, and the other, worthy 

young man, though unfortunate in daring to behave with 
1 


Cr 1D god acd 
p i A ae L 
c od 


2 


decency to me, has been cried down as not deserving of 
advancement; and by these means in a great measure, it not 
entirely, has been shut out from a living in the neighbourhood 
of the city, to which he might probably have been advanced, 
and which would have made him comfortable for life. — 
During all this time, and under all these circumstances, I 
have suppressed even all vindication of myself, except in avery 
confined manner, and among a few individuals. When the 
circumstances come to be known, the community will, 1 am 
persuaded, acknowledge that I have discharged to the full, the 
Christian duty of forbearance. But forbearance has its bounds. 
There is a duty also which I owe to my own private charac- 
ter a duty which I owe to the public influence aie 
Ministry. ay 
parable means have been tried, which could in ‘reason 
quired from the most lenient and forbearing,, for bringing 
ghyunderstanding, and putting matters on a 
er several apologies accepted by me, for 
mg conduct on the part of Dr. Hobart, 
@ promise, that_there should be no future 
plaint; after this promise was without provocation 
> ev ven after the unprovoked and unjustifiable proceedings 
against me at the last Convention, a proposition was, with my 
consent, made to Dr. Hobart, by the Rev. Mr. Harris, who 


hhas always acted the part of a mediator and a friend to both,a — 


friend to all; that all matters at issue, not only respecting me, 
but respecting Dr. Moore and Mr. Feltus also, should be laid 
before the Bishop, and that the Bishop should be requested to 
call together the Clergy, in order that a thorough hearing 
might be had, and some means might be devised for restoring 
harmony, and bringing about an entire reconciliation. To this 
reasonable proposition Dr. Hobart declared in answer, thataf 


the Bishop should call the Clergy together, he would not ii 


with them. I must, however, do him the justice to menti 
that Dr. Hobart has said, he did afterwards repent of 
rash declaration, and suggested the plan in some manner to 
the Bishop. But, from what causes it is impossible for me to 
determine, the object was never carried into effect. 

This subject is to be considered in another point of view. 


The Church throughout this State has been summoned to meet 


in special Convention in the short space of five or. six weeks. 
This measure has been effected without the least intimation 
being made to several of the elder Clergy in this city, indeed, 
to. all who have hitherto been named, together with myself, 


% 


a fF 4! 


5 


‘except Dr. Hobart; only so far as it has come to our ears by 
general report. It is moreover, as is kiown, and is avowed, 
urged for the express purpose, of advancing Dr. Hobart to the 
responsible, the important office of a Bishop; an office, on the 
proper discharge of which, the peace, the good order, and the 
prosperity of our Zion most intimately depend. Now others, 
together with myself, doin our hearts believe, that Dr. Hobart 
is on several accounts utterly unfit for the office. We do 
believe, (and we solemnly appeal to the heart-searching God 
for the sincerity of our conviction,) that his advancement will 
be promotive of a system of tyranny and intolerance, utterly 
incompatible with the state of things in this country; that it 
will be productive of great dissatisfaction and disunion in the 
Church; and that it will subject the Clergy to a state of servile 
submission, which would be highly disgraceful, and incompat- 
ible with the sacredness and religious responsi their 
character. We say nothing of his abilities. 
to allow in their due extent. But we do 
particular traits of character, that he has qué 
oftieart, which far more than counterbalan 
he may have to abilities, in disqualifying him fo 
momentous trust. 

Our conviction on these points arises from our knowledge of 

the facts which we are able to lay before the Church. ‘These 
facts have hitherto been .concealed from public view. We 
firmly believe that when they are known, they will convince 
others alsé, of his unfitness for the situation contemplated. A 
question here presents itself, an awful, a penetrating question 
presents itself: -* Believing as we do, can we answer it to our 
conscience, can we answer it to the Church of Christ, can 
we answer it to our God, if we withhold these facts?” 
Without giving them publicity in the first instance, we have 
sought, since the agitating of this affair, to bring them, in 
a private way, to the knowledge of those, who might have 
been able to arrest its progress. But these, through motives 
vof delicacy, have declined entering upon an investigation. 
. What then is to be done ? shall we sit down with folded 
' “arms, and silently acquiesce in the promotion of a2 measure 
‘of so much moment, which we de think in our hearts to be 
improper, which we do apprehend will be destructive? The 
enfering on an investigation before the Church, is certainly 
‘anevil. Butis not the advancing of animproper person to the 
office of a Bishop in the Church of Christ, a greater by far, and 
2 more lasting — . 


4. 


Whatever unfavourable consequences to the Church 
result from bringing this matter to the view of its members, it 
must be laid to the account of those who have compelled us to 
the step. Dr. Hobart and his friends were the first to bring 
to notice, at the last Convention, the state-of things which had 
been previously concealed. They have been apprizedof the 
course which must be taken if they persevere in their compulsory 
measures. They have said, they expect opposition; but it is 
too trifling to be regarded. We are then impelled, we are 
forced to the alternative---either to submit to what our 


conscience condemns, or to risk some temporary uneasiness by 
a disclosure of the truth. ee Habe 


.. There is another consideration urging to this measure, of 
very forcible, and indeed of determining weight. It has been 
represented to me by several of my friends, that reports are 
abroad, tending to represent me as the personal enemy of Dr, 
atl am endeavouring, without reason, and with- 

}wound his charaeter. . And from some of the 
yersations, it will appear from what quarter these 
taken their rise. It has been urged upon me, 
re, that a vindication is indispensably necessary; and 

he friends of the Church be not undeceived, my 
character will be essentially injured. At what time now cana 
fair representation be made? If it be not now done, the 
opportunity may never again recur. If the means which are 
taken shail succeed for the elevation of Dr. Hobart, (and they 
are taken so dextrously, as it is apprehended, to preclude all 
possibility of a failure,) after that event, it will be too late. It 
avill then be said, that I have made opposition, while I was 
afraid to advance my reasons. _ And I shall be cried down as 
unprincipled, when I shall be ina situation to preclude me from _ 
ever coming forth in my own defence. i. 

_ These are my motives for appearing before the members of 
the Church: and for the'r use alone this statement is intended. 
God knows, I: would infinitely prefer to remain in the shades 
of retirement. I appeal to his searching view for the rectitude 
of my intentions., [ have prayed incessantly, Ido pray most 
earnestly, that if lam actuated by any wordly, by any unworthy 
motive; if I have a false view of things, my mind may be 
enlightened, my heart may be convinced of its error, and 

‘that 1 may see. cause to desist from the undertaking” on 
which [have entered. This step is not taken in haste. Cool 
and dispassionate frzends to me and to the Church have been 
consulted. All prudent advice has been sought. It is from 


§ 


the sum of this advice calmly weighed, and accompanied with 
a reflection upon all the evils which may possibiy result, 
particularly to. myself, that lam induced to proceed. 

» For Dr. Hobart I’ had the most ardent, affection. During 
several of the first years of our Ministry together, 1 loved him 
as a brother; and I was ready on all occasions to promote his 
advancement; and did uniformly aid, or rather take the first 
steps, in placing, him in the fore-ground; while I was content 
myself to remain out of view. It was not till I was led to 
believe that the attainment of power and influence, that self+ 
exaltation was his ruling motive of action---it was not till this, 
that 1 was led to regard him with any other sentiments. And. 
the more that I have reflected, the more that I have observed 
and examined; the more have | become convinced of the truth 
of this persuasion. Some strong instances, and the means made 
use of to promote them, together with some o th rticulars 
which cannot now be attended to, shall. make 1 ' 
a second part, should it be found necessary 
subject... | if “il 
_» tt present I must be confined to matters of fa cerning 
myself, and concerning those for whose sake, and for treating 
them with common decency, Ihave been insulted. and opposed. . 
For thetruth andcorrectnessof those f ctswhichconcern myself, 
I pledge myself to the Church, and shall be ready at any time to 
seal them with my solemn oath. They were noted down at times 
when I could not be mistaken, wher they were-all fresh m my 
memory, and strongly impressed on my inind. Finding that 
the occurrences became so frequent, it appeared to me necessary 
that some aids should be called in to strengthen my memory 5 
as it seemed probable that the period might arrive, when it 
would be requisite to exhibit these circumstances in my own 
defence. ‘The first two extraordinary facts “were taken no 
notice of ; and they occurred when the most. cordial under- 
standing and harmony subsisted between us. When the third 
took place, it appeared proper to take some steps to prevent a 
repetition. It was then, for the first time, that I began to refresh 
my memory as to what had previously occurred ‘The several © 
‘particulars of the different conversations were noted down, as 
far as they could be retained, in order that the truth might 
appear without disguise. And they are now, for the same 
‘eason, given entire. Some matters may appear uninteresting 

-and of lttle moment; but it is thought best to-give all the 
connected parts, in order that a correct judgment may be 
formed, rite 


it will be proper to mention that what ensues upon therfiret tia 
instances which occurred, was noted down on the 9th of 
June, 1809, immedistely after the third occurrence had 
taken place: and it is here inserted exactly as it was — 
drawn up, in order to be laid before the — 
wal 4 
OF the two former occasions I should detiasapel not 
justified to speak, be ause an apology was made in each case 
respectively, in the manner which will be hereafter related 
and from this consideration I never have mentioned them) as 
far as I recollect, except to one or two confidential friends: but 
existing circumstances alter the case.. The wounds of my 
~ sensibility are opened atresh in the same manner, and by the 
5 which seems to cancel the former acknow 
require some more effectual remedy for the past, 
for the future. For if’ an individual may thus 
anguage and conduct he pleases, and as often as 
d afterwards has’ nothing to do but’ plead, in 
, @ hastiness of temper as a suflicient atonement, 
there can be no security to others, either for” ‘feclings'or 
for character.) rhe CaS 
The former of the instances referred to, was at the time of 
the death of Gen. Hamilton, in the year 1804. All the cireum- 
stances are not fresh in. my memory, but I shall endeavour to 


relate them as correctly as possible | It happened that at that — 


time, a paragraph appeared in the Commercial Advertiser, 
which seemed to give a wrong representation of the circum= 
stances attending that melencholy event, and to have an 
unfavourable aspect to the Church, or at least not to do her 
justice. As soon as. | discovered it, I waited on the Rev. 


Mr. Harris,and conversed with him on the subject. He agreed 


with me in sentiment. We went together to Mr. Hobart, 
and all three thus consulting, agreed that some counter repre- 
sentation ought to be made. We accordingly drew up a 
patagra ph in as moderate a manner as we thought was consistent 
with propriety, with which we waited on the editor of the 


aforementioned paper. He objected to inserting it in its then 


" present form. We made as many alterations as we thought were 
compatible. He still refused, unless we would make such 
alterations as would destroy the object. We therefore left 
him, and separated.) I returned home. » Phe other gentlemen 
contimuing together, were afterwards induced, I am now 


7 


persuaded, and was then persuaded, from the most cortect 
motives, to make another attempt. ‘They made a compromise 
with the editor, and gota paragraph inserted. Ihad not the 
least objection to their acting in my absence, had the object 
been attained. I saw the paragraph in the .evening, and it 
really seemed to me to give up every thing. ‘The next morning 
Mr. Hobart and I met, after prayers, in the vestry room of 
Trinity Church. . Dr. Beach and the Rev. Mr. Van Dyke 
were present. I mentioned to Mr. Hobart that [ was sorry he 
and Mr Harris had consented to the communication in the 
existing form. He defended. ‘Uhe paragraph was read. The 
gentlemen present agreed with me that it gave up the point 
which we wished to maintain. Mr. Hobart insisted that it 
answered the object desired. I began t« point out its deficien- 
cies. ‘ Ah!” said he, you are only displeased that it was 
inserted without your being present.” ‘ Well,” re 5 Cif 
you think me capable of being actuated by such a 
say no more upon it.” We came out of the C 
the other gentlemen stillin company. In going along the walk 
in front of. Trinity Church, Mr. Hobart resumed the subjects 
and I without reflecting on what had passed, began to make 
some remarks. . Recollecting myself however, “ but,” said I, 
«« Mr. Hobart says that I am displeased only because they acted 
without me. | shall therefore say nothing.” “ Ah!” said he, 
** you are angry now at what was said; 1 don’t care if you are: 
be as angry as you please.” Ismiled: and we went on. No 
notice was afterwards taken of this by me, further than to 
maintain that reserve and distance in my deportment, which 
would keep me out of the way of similar treatment; at the 

same time treating him with respect.. Some time after, I know 

not but it was some months, at the meeting of the Convention, 
Mr. Hobart stopped me one day in coming out of Church, said: 
that he was sorry for what had occurred, and remarked that he 
considered it a Christian duty to make me the acknowledgment.’ 
At the same time he palliated, suggesting that the attending 
circumstances were irritating. As this was the first time that: 
these unpleasant occurrences had taken place, I felt no dispo-. 
sition to altercate; but let it so pass, and resumed our former 
familiar intercourse, by his invitation. ; 

The second occurrence was -at the funeral of Mr. Walton, 

‘This was, believe, about two years after the former transaction. 

had been desired by the Bishop to visit and supply the Churches 

in the county of Orange. I consented, provided my place in 

the city could be supplied... Phe Bishop said it was reasonable 


8 


that my duties here should be discharged, when I was perform- 
ing the general dutses of the Church in another quarter; and 
remarked that he did not doubt that my brethren in the cit 
would discharge my parochial duties in errata ae 
should not have to perform additional seryiee on my return. 
He said moreover, that for his part, he would take his turn to 
officiate for me; and doubted not our colle would do the 
same, if 1 should apply tothem. Some short-time after, my 
wite was quite indisposed; and it was deemed advisable that 
she should take a little tour:up the country I proposediaccord- 
ingly to accompany her to the springs on the. first convenient 
opportunity; and began, to make arrangements in my 1 
for carrying the two objects conjunctly into effect. About this 
time it happened, I do not know exactly, by what means, 
except it was by the shutting up of one of the Churches, that 
_ 1 had two vacant Sundays in succession. ‘These, or rath 
the intermediate time, I thought of devoting tothe 

ny nd two others, provided the Bishop’s proposition 

ed, to visiting the Churches mentioned, | At. the 
time above referred to, just as we were taking our Stations 
before the corpse, I mentioned these circumstances to Mr. 
Hobart; and asked him, if he would supply my “place one 
Sunday, as the Bishop would the other? He said, no, he would 
net; that he had no notion of doing my duty without a return; — 
that he would be willing to do it for any other person; but 
that I was always very exact in requiring an equivalent for 
offices rendered. I replied, that the proposition made appeared 
to be. strictly just, that while I was doing the duties of the 
Church elsewhere, I should have my place supplied-here; that 
the proposition was atthe suggestion of the Bishop, and rested 
with himself to adopt or not. He said, I might take my owm 
Sundays without infringing on the privileges of my brethren. 
1 gave the reason above referred to, for making a different 
arrangement. He said, he did not doubt I would be very — 
willing to supply other Churches, if I could get vid of my 
labours here; and that any of the Clergy would.be willing to 
do the same. I then offered to:supply his place, if he would 
do what I had proposed. He said, no: he did not wish t0 leave 
the city. This was the substance of our conversation, the 
whole of. which I do not recollect; but it lasted without 
intermission from the door of Mr. Walton, in the upper end 
of Pearl-Street, till we arrived at the door of Trinity Church; 
during which time, I trequently urged that the matter rested 
entirely with himself to adopt or not; and we had therefore 


49 


_ bétter'say no more‘aboutit. Throughout the whole,Mr. Hobart, 
with considerable heat, and with somewhat of biting sarcasm, 
plainly arraigned the reasonableness of my request, and the 
purity. of my motives; and I was involuntarily compelled to 
plead in my own defence. 
_ A short time after, £ think in “die course of about a week, 
Mr. Hobart came to the Theological Society, on the night when 
d presided ; and when I Cante out, he followed me, and entered 
- into a conversation on the subject of ‘what had eccurred. -Ple 
acknowledged the impropriety of his eonduct; pleaded ‘the 
quickness of his temper, and offered to comply with what 3 
had proposed: “I told him, I had then changed my plan. He 
said, then he would give me'two Sundays at any other time, 
when [ should: wish to go from home to a¢company my wife. 
T thanked him for his offer; but said, that’ was an indulgence 
which I had not desired, and to which I ‘no claim. 
E afterwards devoted my own ‘time to ‘visi he above 
Chorches.~ > bs dia 
After this: apology, - Mr. Hobate and’"L- were ile same 
friendly footing ‘as before: only, to be sure, I ‘could not help 
viewing him with a little distrast.» The thitd ‘instance occurred 
on the 5th of Jane, 1809, and the next day I noted it‘down, 
together with the: former cases,’ in the te tesla manner. ©” 


IN order: that: ‘the subject of the’ fone” representation 
may appear in its true colours, and that nothing ‘may escape 
my recollection; i deem it proper, while the circumstances’ are 
_ fresh in my memory, and strongly impressed on my mind, to 
commit to paper the particulars, as far as I'am able to trace 
them, of a conversation had-with Dr. Hobart: I shall~ make 
no remarks, ‘further, : than that it is my wish to present every. 
thing; as far as possible, exactly in the manner in which Mook 
place. I may not, perhaps, be able to recollect exactly the words 
used, or to preserve’ the identical ordet in which every thing 
occurred 5 but it shall be‘my endeavour to preserve the sub- 
stance at least, and, as far as is in my geet sige aha 
ne yar by which i it was conveyed: 


Tuesday Mortis June Gt, 1609. - 


| LAST evening, near abdut dusk, as Dri Hobart and self 
were coming out of’ Trinity Church; after the meeting of the 
Committees of «The Bible and Cotiment Prayer Book Soci- 
ety,” he and I being: the only persons remaining, he stopped 
ine‘in the portico, and introduced the following conyersation, 


9 
“ 


10 


which I shall relate in the form in which it occurred, for'the 
sake of brevity and clearness. ois , hae 
oft “9 
Dr. H. 1 understand the Standing Committee have recom- 
mended Mr. Gillet for Orders. 4% ; 
Mr. F. Yes, we had a meeting for that: purpose, and 
recommended him. CEH i. ‘ 
Dr. H. “Yam astonished,” or, “ It is disgraceful,” (it is 
not exactly recollected which;,) that such a person should be 
recommended. He isa mere numskull. He never wrote a 
sermon in his life; and he never will be able to write ones 
‘This he has acknowledged to Mr. Lyell. The young men of 
the Theological Society make a mere scoff at his having ob- 
tained testimonials, He has been running about every where to 
try and get Orders; and would have entered into the Mini 
esbyterians, if they would have adimitted him. 
the subject of his writing sermons, he has 


ve 


he has several in his possession of his own 
composition.--With regard to the other particulars, the Stand- 
ing Committee is not the proper body to determine. We there 
meet only for the purpose of enquiring into the moral and 
religious character of the candidate: if these be clear we them 
deliver. him over to the Bishop, and examining Presbyters, ta 
determine on his mental and literary qualifications. : 

Dr. H. Pardon me: the Standing’ Committee are called 
upon by the Canon, to declare: « And moreover, we think 
him ‘a person worthy to be admitted to the holy Order of 
Deacon.” ; ' si 
_. Mr., F. True; but this can refer only to his moral and 
religious qualifications. For how can the Standing Committee 
judge of his literary or theological acquirements? they are to 
determine only according to testimony; which testimony goes 
only, by the letter of the Canon, to his religious character, — 
Besides, if the Standing Committee are to judge beforehand 
of his mental qualifications, where can be the propriety of 
appointing examiners afterwards to judge of such qualifications? 

Dr. H. But this Committee was not duly convened. It is 
required by the Canon, that the Standing Committe shall be 
called together by the chairman. 

Mr. }. This is new tome. I know it has always been 
customary for any one member to convene the Committee, in 
the absence of the chairman. I recollect a case exactly similar. 


When the Rev. Mr. Reed, of Catskill, applied for Priest’s — 


Orders, it happened that both you and Dr. Beach were out of 


a 
* 
a 
ak 

* 


a 


BS 


of 


Tl 


town. The Bishop directed him to apply'to me, to call a 
meeting of the Committee; which was accordingly done: and 
he was ordained on their recommendation. 

Dr. H. But an alteration was made in the wording of the 
Canon at the last General Convention. 
_ Mr. 7. 1 had not attended to that circumstance. And 
indeed, if there be any irregularity in this business, it must 
be charged to the Bishop, by whose direction Mr. Gillet 
¢alled upon me to summon the Standing Committee. 
» Dr. H. Why, perhaps it may admit of a question, whether 
this requisition refers to the calling of the Committee generally, 
or be not confined to the convening of that body, when they 
are to act as a council of advice. It is, perhaps, more properly 
to be understood as restricted to the latter sense. However, it 
appears very extraordinary, that this application should be 
brought forward, just at the time when i'r. Beach and myself 
were out of town, both of whom were known to be adverse 
to the views of Mr. Gillet, with regard to the Ministry. 
. woe This was entirely casual, and by no means intended. 
When Mr. Gillet called on me, announcing his intention of 
calling on the Bishop, to request a meeting of the Standing 
Committee, he appeared to have no knowledge of the absence 
of any member. I mentioned to him that Dr. Beach was out 
of town. He asked if that would necessarily prevent the 
calling of the Committee ? I said, that I supposed not. «* Then,” 
answered he, “ it will make no difference. I came to the city 
with an intention of applying for Orders, under the impression 
that all the members of the Standing Committee were at home; 
but at all events I wish now to proceed.”—-As to yourself, I 
am persuaded that he thought you were in town. ‘[ certainly 
was fully impressed with the idea that you were. And when 
he called upon me by the direction of the Bishop, to call together 
the Standing Committee, I gave him your name with that of 
the other members; and he afterwards informed me that he 
had called at your house, and was there informed that you 
were not in town, and would not be till Saturday. 

Dr. H. This may be: however, I have made up my mind 
on the subject. There has been so much manceuyring in this 
business, that I am determined, if Mr. Gillet shall pass an 
examination; and be recommended for Orders, that I will 
stand up in the Congregation, and object to the Ordination, 


e on the grounds, that the Candidate was brought forward, 


& 


_ © evidently with design, in the absence of Dr. Beach and 


12 


Mr \F- As tothat; youwill certainly do as you please. * - 

Dr. H. -O, yes: bdo not-mention it for the sake of con+ — 
sulting, or in ordertojask advice ; but that you may have it 
in.your power to givei the information to'Mr Gillet) 

Mr. F. ¥ shall probably not have an: opportunity of seeing 
Mr. Gillet, before you wall yourself be able: to communicate 
it tohim, at the.examination. I have never been in the habit 
of corresponding with Mr. Gillet... I havenevernwritten a line 
tohim, nor received ‘one fromhim. There will, however, be 
no necessity for your taking the step mentioned, in ordet to 
prevent the Ordination. . ‘Fhe examination will presenta fit 
opportunity for stopping him, if he be incompetent as you ~ 
represent. And, in such ease, I will certainly join with you: ~ 
Fhe granting of Testimonials from: the Standimg itte 
as to. moralrand. religious character, 1s no "inde ea 
n:for Orders, after-examination, without the requisite - 
in Sy J r PO else | a 
Ah, as to that, I have formed my determinations’ 

valldr. Fs Astocwhat you remark of manceuvring, I camsafely — 

Say, that: L haveshada hand im: no manoeuvres. b have : 
converseds not im any way had commanication with MreGillet- 
on the subject of his taking Orders; for at least twelve months, 
Nor did I know: of his intention of applyirig for Orders at:this 
time; until he called: upon me to give me the information, after — 
he:had waited upon the Bishop, as. he told me, and made the — 
necessary arrangement. -‘Now that we areupon’ this subject; — 
willbe opento say, that: have reason to believe, an opinion has 
been spread.abroad, (by whom it was broached, is not for me to 
say, or even surmise,) that I have favoured the viewsof Mn - 
Gillet to .the: Ministry, because you were: opposed. Sir, 1 


should: be ashamed :of; myself, were 1 capable of acting, inva ~ 3 ; 


matter of somuch moment as:that‘of encouraging a Candidate — 
for Orders, or indeed, in anyof the other public duties of mp 
office, from anyother motive or principle,. than that of. Mi 
and a regard to the interest and prosperity of the Church. I pe 
do most solemnly declare, that J’ -have acted im ‘the ‘whole of i 
this business, on: the same principle on which I am «deter-— 
mined to act in all the public duties of my office; a regatd to” 
justice towards all, according to my best judgment, -without 
prejudice or partiality, and without any:selfish viewson:the one 
hand, ‘or, on theother, any undue submission to the opinion 
or:influence of others: <) 05) 7 2) 25 Ono ge 
Dr. H. Why, to be sure, it seemedia little: strange; after © 
you knew that I was opposed to Mr. Gillet, that you-shonld 


* 
~ 


<=) 


ah 


« 


= 


15 
’ give him encouragement, without consulting with ‘me on the 
subject. I had expressed freely to.you my sentiments con- 
cerning him; and it would therefore have been proper, that 
you should communicate your intention to mey before. you gave 
him any countenance. Mr. Gillet had been an inmate, I may 
say, in my house ; and I had the best opportunities of knowing 
him. 1 had, moreover, my information from Mr. Hart, with 
whom he. had boarded, and wha strongly urged-his incapacity 
for the Ministry, and the necessity of persuading him ‘to 
decline. This occurred in a conversation, not only with me, 
bat with several of the Clergy, when on our. way to take 
dinner with Mr:Harris: and it was then urged upon me to 
mention these sentiments to the person concerned; to which 
T consented, only on the grounds of friendship to Mr. Gillet. 
. Mr. F. Yowexpressed, it is true, your sentiments to me; 
and I considered. it inthe “light of any other passing conversa+ 
tion, to operate so far as your opinions might have weight, 
and as, I might see proper to-adopt them : but I didnot suppose, 
that it laid me under any obligation to. act agreeably to your 
views, ‘or to consult your wishes..before I should.act, when 
called. upon:so to do. Ihave not volunteered in this business: 
I have:acted only as circumstances required, Mr: Gillet 
called. upon me;. and informed me, that it had -come.to his 
knowledge, that some of the Clergy were. unfavourable to 
his views, and were determined to oppose him; and asked, 
if IL had formed:any. such.determination ? 1 told him, -that-I 
had not; but that I should be governed by circumstances, and 
bythe evidence which. he should give cf his attainments. I 
gave him, however, no further encouragement at that time. - 
I then called on the Bishop to consult him:on the subject. . I 
mentioned to-him what had. passed between Mr. Gillet and 
‘me; and, at the same’ time, remarked on the earnest desire. of 
Mr. Gillet to study for the Ministry, and to render himself 
useful. The Bishop said that Mr. Gillet had waited upon him, - 
and had a similar conversation; “and really,” said the Bishop, 
«from Mr, Gillet’s~amiable disposition, and’ pious turn of 
mind, and. from his.zealous -wish to: be useful-ia the:Church, 
itis a pity to discourage him and he may, perhaps, .by perse- 
verance and diligent application, be able to overcome any» 
incompetency.”: . I’ then *stated my opinion ‘concerning Mr. 
Gillet, that, although I:did not consider him as likely to - 
command any of the most conspicuous’stations in the Church; 
yet, that from his zeal and_piety, he might be useful in certain 
situations; and there were parishes where a person of his cast 


14 


might be more acceptable than one of more extensive mental 
attainments. In these sentiments the Bishop accorded. ‘Then, 
* Sir, said L, is it your-wish that Mr. Gillet should be encouraged 
to persevere? “« Why, yes,” said the Bishop, « from these 
considerations, I have myself encouraged him to prosecute 
his studies.” After I had thus consulted the chief Officer of 
the Church, and got his assent, £ did not suppose it was 
necessary to ask permission of any one of my “— before 
¥ should venture to proceed. a 
Dr. H. As to permission, that is to be sure, very trues but 
it would be very useful to consult together on the m 
pursued. However, if things are to be put on this 
that there is no necessity or obligation, to consult, or as 
permission; why, matters must go on so. ay 
Mr. F. To be candid, this is just the footing on ‘width I 
have considered things to be put for a considerable time past. 
Dr. H. By whom? not by me. I have always been 
desirous that you should be called upon to take part in all our 
measures; and I have lamented, when it has been 
Mr. F. 1 have generally found that I was mee mg 
‘when it was found convenient to make use of my 
at other times, you could get on very smoothly va oy 
Dr. H: In what instances? I can appeal toall OF ee 
for the manner in which I have always spoken of you, andfor 
the fact of my having urged the calling upon you, on all the 
puolic concerns of the Church. If you were not invitee 
examinations, was that my fault? ity 
Mr. F. Xt is not necessary to notice particular instances: such 
have been my firmimpressions. However, lam not desirous 
of partaking in the public duties of the Church, or of obtain 
ing any influence in her general concerns. My only emulation, 
is, to discharge my parochial duties in the best manner in 
power; and I shall attend to other duties, only so far as 
are laid upon me. Be ae 
1) Sala letin 
Here Mr. Collister came out of the Ching to shut the 
doors, and we withdrew to the walk in front, under one ‘of 
the trees. ; he 


Dr. H. Resumed——Now that we have got spon this 
subject, we may as well proceed farther. 
Mr. F. I have no objection. . 
Dr. H, J have for some time thought of speaking to 5 you om 
these subjects; and now may be as good a time as any. 


") 


15 


always looked upon you to be a man of correct principles, and 
of upright conduct; and always spoke of you as such—till 
within about twelve months past: since that time, 1 confess, — 
my sentiments and my language have changed. I had not a 
doubt of your being friendly to me, till about the meeting of 
the last Convention: then I began to see evident signs of 
your opposition. Nay, there was a systematic Lap laid = 
turning me out of .the office of Secretary. 

Mr. F. That deny, and put you upon the proof of it. ° 

Dr. H. Ha! as to the proof 

Mr. F. Yes, Sir, Lhesitate not to call upon you to pro- 
duce your proof. 

Dr. H. Well, did: “you not says that I ought to be turned 
out. 

Mr. F. That particular. I do not recollect. 

Dr. H. Well, if your recollection does not serve you, it is” 
not worth while for us to say any more on that subject. Did 
you not then say, that I had asserted things concerning 
Biv. Feltus which I could not establish ? 

 MreF Why, yes, that I believe I have said. 

Dr. H. It isabase calumny. - — 

_ Mr. F. 1 don’t think it is, Mr. Hobart. 
eh 7 It is a base calumny! It is a base dalomisgt 
. You grow warm, Sir! © 
Drie It is a base calumny!—and, (waving the hand) i 
further intercourse with you. ~ 
ne ith this he left me abruptly. 


The above statement of the three several cases, which was 
intended to be laid before the Bishop and Clergy, was shewn 
to the Rev. Mr. Harris. He had:intercourse with Dr. Hobart 
on the subject, who as he relates to me, made to him the 
same representation in substance, and in particular, as far ashe 
was able to compare by the ear. Dr. Hobart expressed to him 
his regret for what had taken place ; and acknowledged the 
advantage which | had over him, arising from his quickness of 
temper, and my coolness of deportment. At the same time, 
I must mention, in justice to him, that he desired Mr. Harris 
to state, that if I insisted on bringing it before the Bishop he 
would not refuse, but that he had some pleas to offer which 
would tend to prevent a cordial reconciliation. . He was very 
much agitated, as Mr. Harris represented to me, said he was 
very unhappy, and had it very much in contemplation to retire 
from the eity.—It was agreed upon between him and Mr. Harris 

a) 


16 


nmy part, that, proyided I should consent to the plan propo. 
oY, pi should bury.in oblivion bee had heretofore tuken 
* place, and start .denovo, on the. plan, of having regard. to 
nothing but the general welfare of the Church, | and leavin 
all other points to grow out of circum He also e 
under condition. that I also was to enter into similar engages 


iam 


ment,that no means whateyer should be used for self-exaltation; 


and that if any thing should be mentioned to the detriment of 
either, the person,accused should be the- first to informed ; 
and moreover, that every thing in relation to the general een 
cerns,of the Church should be done byimutual const i 
‘These preliminaries and propositions were 


me. . The latter met with my, ready,;and teary sescublacn they 


have always been the first wish of my heart; and indeed-a | 


departure from.them, as 4 conceived, on the part. ‘of ee 
was the great cause of complaint. .And.to the former 
the megociation. I assented, by the advice of our fi ‘ 
Harris, for the sake;ot peace. without.any- persona] - con- 
ledgments or concessions; under the express condition, how- 
ever, that these. papers. should. be’; exhibited, shoywld the 
aforementioned terms not be faithfully performed. _ ee ay 
An interview took:placé, ia consequence, im the present D.C 
Mr. Harris. I began to enter upon some particulars of w lat 
had passed, in order to an'-explanation, But Dr. Hobart 
remarked that we had better leave every thing on — 
ground as settled ; ; and let the purity of our int 8 be 
evidenced by our future conduct. I stipulated, however, that 
our measures must be conducted on the principle of equal 
justice to all.our, Brethren; and remarked with regard to the 
young .men studying | for the Ministry, that while we should 


behave to. them with affection, ‘to’be sure, yet we ought not to 


court, their attachment by, undue attentions. To this) Jast 

Dr. Hobart replied, that in that respect cach stot > left t 

the exercise of his own discretion. ya 
- Fune 13th, 1809. 


6 
"(As the circumstances attending this ¢: case of Mr. vam 
lately been. brought- forward, now in the year 1811,, by. the 
friends of Dr. Hobart, for the purpose of justifying the turning 


of me out of the Standing Committee at the last Convention; ~ 


and for. this purpose they still persist to represent unfarness in 
the case; I shall here insert a Certificate from Mr. pa 
which will set the matter in its proper light. 5 wo 


# 


‘17 
'  ‘Phereby Certify, That when I called upon'the Rev. Mr. Jonesy 
‘inthe month of May, or Fune, 1809, for the purpose of conversing 
‘on the subject of my taking Orders, and of having the Standing Uom- 
‘mittee called, he mentioned tome that Dr. Beach, the Chairman of 
‘that Committee, was out of town. In answer, I remarked that if 
that circumstance would not prevent, I would wish te have that 
“bady convened, as I had ‘come to the City for the purpose. Mr. 
“Fones then directed me to call upon the Bishop for his instructions. 
At this time I knew nothing of Dr. Hobart’s being out of towns 
and Mr. Fones appeared to have no knowledge of this circumstance. 
I waited on the Bishop, and received frem him directions to apply 
‘to any one of the Clerical mémbers to have the Committee convened. 
‘E accordingly applied to Mr. Fones; because, by accident I met 
with him coming out of St. Pauls after prayers. From him £ 
received the names of the members of the Conimittee, with their ad- 
dress. Among the rest, was given the name of Dr. Hobart. I 
called at his house with a notice, and there learned for the first time 
that he was out of town. I further certify, that no communica- 
‘tion by note, “or letter, had ever taken place between Mr. ones 
and myself: and that I never received from him information on 
the subject, in any other way, except, when of my own accord, I 
called at bis house forthe purpose. To these points I am ready to 
give my affidavit, when called upon. i 
_. WITNESS my hand, in New-York, this 8th day of 
*y April, 1811. 


~ ae 


¥YACOB GILLET. 


'’ “TT will be'seen, by the above terms of accommodation, 
and by the ground taken by Dr. Hobart, that he had some- 
thing to advance, which he intended as a set off against his 
conduct to me, had the’ business been brought, as‘was intended, 
before the Bishop. It will be proper, therefore, to let this 
matter be fairly stated; because it belongs properly and ‘solely 
to this’ period, and was all cancelled by the solemn pledge 
into which we then entered. 

The only matter of ‘fact of which I am conscious—the only 
matter of fact, which, by the most diligent enquiry I have 
learnt Dr. Hobart has ever advanced, is a letter which I wrote to 
the Rev. Mr. Prentice of Athens, in this State, and a conver= 
Sation had some time after with ‘that gentlerhan. Between 
Mr Prentince and myself; the most familiar intercourse and 
communication existed. Thete are in my possession a number 
of letters, to shew that he and his particular friend in the 


0 


fetter, which _was written. to. him, dated. August 9th, .1 


_passing events. Some time after, intimations were. peg 2. 
Friend of mine by Dr. Hobart,. of his knowledge ‘of ‘some 

matters which had been communicated by me; and under — 
circumstances which seemed to point to that lesions I had - 


as 


Church. at Athens, who was. also ; 
youth “ particular, friend, were in. 
me, is y> in all matters Tasing to t 


Mr. pais phat to his own phe ack cD ur edgme y 
‘frequently repeated, had been induced to continue his. labour, 
to that Church, even after he had made. up his moines to ta 
his departure, for want of support. Mr. Prentice-had more 
over, at. different times, put. up at my house 5. and we had, 
on these occasions, had unreserved communications on the 
acts of the Church. From these circumstances, 1} 
bit of unbosoming myself freely to, Mr. Prentice: and wher 
I wrote to him, which I was in the constant habit of..¢ doing 
and of receiving a as regularly letters from. him, I delivered, m 
thoughts without. reserve, in all the confidence of friendship, 
according to the prevailing current of my reflections. na 


copy of which shall be subjoined, I had spoken to him 
way, incautiously it would now, seem, upon some, then 


altogether forgotten its contents; for I had kept no copy, as it 
was written without, any. particulay Siete: and-aecording to 
the passing train.of. my thoughts. . Upon: intimation of this 
being. made to me, I wrote to Mr. Prentice, requesting a copy 
of that letter, and desiting also to know whether he had giver 


a sight,of it to any person, or whether he could Re J } 


what means its contents might have been known? 
sometime, the following letter was, received in ANEW Slay f+ 
, ire 
CROs Be ERR ONS AP — 
: —— oe 2 1800. 
, Rev. ‘and Dear Sir. rf eo ‘Hi 
1 must, preface my. letter with an. for 
deferring thus long to answer yours of the 21st Nov. 1808. 
That letter was not handed mey. until some time in December, 
when the communication with i by water, was 


“Ta 


he 


19 

entirely cut off.’ No opportunity by land, excepting per ~ 

offering, I delayed writing; under the expectation that Mr. V2 
Buskirk would visit New-York in February, as he had men? 
tioned to me his intention of so doing. But he has been 
procrastinating from that time, and, at length haé given up the 
idea for the present. Bat I embrace the opportunity by 
Mrs. Van Buskirk, of complying with your request, and thus 
discharging a duty, which ought not to have been thus long 
delayed. And as youhave once “passed an act of insolvency 
in my favour,” I hope that my future punctuality will ‘savé 
me from the necessity of again pleading that benefit. Bin 
You comimence your letter, by suggesting a suitable mode 
ef discharging my parochial duties, and of applying my 
Missionary labours; and, so far as in miy power, have pursued 
the plan proposed: a more particular account of which shall 

be given in some futute communicatiow. 
-- You request from me a copy of 4 lettér, received from yotts 
ing date August 9th, 1808. - Youu alsd wish me to 
inform you, whether I have at any time shewn that létter to 
any person, ‘and to. whom; or who may in any way be 
acquainted with its contents. Upon mature deliberation, F 
have thought it best to'send you the origiriafy ‘trusting m the 
méan time, that you will not mistake my motive in so doing; 
at any tate; 1 beg you will ascribe it to any other, ‘rather thaw 
toa disrespect’for the author. A$ to my ever having show 
that letter to any one, [think it little short of indelicacy i 
you ‘to make such an’ enquiry. [f, however, my assurance 
can give any satisfaction, I declare, I never have shewn it. 
As to the other enquiry, whether any bedy, and who,’ may 
have’ seen it, or come to a Knowledge of its contents, I cannot 
answer so'explicitly. ‘That letter, with all my others, ha¥ Hin 
filed, in'an open'desk in my study. If any pérsony who may 
at any time have been in there, has had’ the curidsity to overs 
haul them, and treasure up the contents of that particular oné; 
¥ can only cay, that it has not comé# tomy knowledge. - Thave 
indulged some conjectures ; and if the fact is so, as you have 
intimated ia your letter, that some person in New-York, is 
“ retailing its contents,” -and it will bé of any importance té 
‘ou, I may perhaps, though 2 very unpleasant thing, disclose to’ 
u these conjectures. ’ Inv the mean time,’ let me hear front 
you by the Experiment, or otherwise, atid believé mé 
enrus . - Lie Yout friend, 3 Ff i 19 
and brother in Christ, £ nega 


ke ak JOSEPH PRENTIOR: 


a. 


20 


‘In,that letter was inclosed the following, whichied been 
written by me, “ay was ue of, which I had requested @ 
copra ees ewes at 

LTR Ohi. op ORoR Anca 


‘To the Rev. lees Prentice, Athens. thides" ‘a? 


1 «<- New-York, Apast 9th, 1808. 
‘ raf 

“Dear Sir, ' ie "iia eiliey >: 
-I believe you are : diadebted to me. However, we 

will pass an act of insolvency, and open a new account. ‘This, 
then, is so much to be put to my credit; andJ have only to 
desire youto bear in mind, that the balance is againstyyous © = 
__ This will be handed, you by my worthy friend,*the Revs 


_ Mr. Cooper.’ I rejoice greatly, that you will have’ ‘so excellent 


a neighbour. I was very desirous of having him settled at 


Bloomingdale. However, I am-equally pleased that he will 


be stationed. at. Hudson, | where he,will have a greate 
tunity of doing good. You wail I hans be much, 
in his society. fiworle opin yen | , ae 
. I should have written to you, by. Mn onpeah -when he first 
visited your neighbourhood ;, but knew not of the:time of hie 
departure, . as. he only passed through the city, and had not 


time to callon me.., It was also my intention of a 
him, . my, promise: in .sending- you,“ Potter,’ on Ch ch: 
government.” Indeed, ,as soon as I heard, of a vessel in the: — 


spring, I immediately . went to, the library, with. intention 
to send, the above author ; but as the books were not ‘then 
arranged; it was.out of my power to find it;- and as the 
vessel was to sail that afternoon, it was out of my power to 
return home, and write, and send my own copy. Since that, 
{ have not known. of an opportunity, except by Mr. Coopers 


This will-be my apology. I proposed at this time to cond. pam . 


the book ; but Mr. Cooper mentioned that he possessed it, » 
would furnish you. You will from this obtain all the infor- 
mation required on the subject,, and indeed, the source from’ 
which all the arguments are drawn. 7 hap gtoket 
. When f last wrote to you, and repaibdeneail theta 
nation of Fowler’s Exposition of) the Liturgy, I was 1 
quainted with theintention of theCorporationof Trinity’ 

to purchase a parcel to be distributed among the pe koe I 
rejoice at this arrangement, and think that it will be productive 
of good. The disseminating of such books, adapted to the 
capacity and to the instructing of plain readers, will do more 
good than all the controversial writings that ambition and self- 


21 


gratulation can multiply. It was my expectation to be-able'to. 
forward you before this, some parcels of Jones’ Churchman’s 
Catechism and Wall’s small tract on infant Baptism. We had 
made an appropriation for this purpose, and appointed Dr.. Ho- 
bart to get them printed. But I have waited in constant ex- 
pectation of seeing them come out ; though have heard nothing 
of them since ; till the other day I enquired of the printer, and 
found that Mr.; Hobart had: applied the money another way, 

. as suited his own wishes’ and views.. This, Iam sorry to say 
to you, is the wayin which too much of the public business 
of the Church is transacted. It is time that some enquiry 
should be made = > & 

{am happy to learn the favourable disposition towards the 
Church, which’ prevails among the Lutherans in your parish. 
Thope from some late citoumstances, that the same disposition 
begins to prevail generally among those of that communion. 
It was mentioned to me lately by the Bishop, that an indirect 
application had been made to him to pave the way toa general 
union. — This will probably be brought before the Convention 
at our next meeting ; and if any thing can be done towards an 
union, it is certainly a desirable object. I shall. undoubtedly 
give it my hearty support.: » piace - eihod gies 
. Present my best wishes to ourgood friend Mr. Ritter. Also 
to your wife and family... Perhaps before the summer is gone, 
I.may make out to be spared to take:a little tour and see you. 

; _ In the mean time believe me, with great regard, 
Your friend and Brother in Christ, ) °° 
‘3 CAVE JONES. 


., Thisis the letter, defamatory of Dr.-Hobart, written to a 
gentleman up the north river, which has been. incessantly re~ 
ferred to by Dr. Hobart and Mr. How, as a justification 
of all their conduct towards ‘me, not only prior to June 13th; 
1809, when a full understanding and act of oblivion took place 
between us, but ever since that event. - It is presented entire, 
in all parts having relation to the case, that it may appear in all 
its malignity ; and that every one may be able to form a judg- 
»  » ment for himself. ._ This is the only letter of the same character, 
which I am conscious of having written; or which has any re- 
ference to these subjects, except what were subsequently 
directed to the same person, explanatory of my views in the 
xequest which had been made. . : 24g 
The first question which presents itself, is, « By what means 
conld this communication get to the knowledge of Dr. Hobart?” 


my. 


* 


ge 


Dir. Prentiee, in alettersof July 19th,1809, has offered some 
to account for this event 3 by which it would appear 
that My. Lyell was the instrument’ ga the matter to” 
~ Mr. Prenticé has also declared: ‘appear 
from the above letter from him:of May-24, 1809, that im-what- 
ever manner the thing-was effected, it was entirely without his 
knowledge or constnt. 'Nay,.he has:said, “+ He eg > rans oe 
sas, little less than indelicacy in: me to‘ask. = r 
“ given to any one.a sight of. that letter.” et Mr. How has 
asserted, ; “that ‘Mr Snccean exhibited it in the first‘instance to 
a friend; who recommended its) being: sent to Dr. Hobart 
here must be some great mistake, or errory or evil in th 
business. — 1 wish not to-bé understood as: calling. Mr come 
veracity, i in question: on this occasion: But it is certainly dif 
cult to bélieve that Mr.:Prentice could be: guilty: of ond anal 
breach of confidence, of so much ingiatitude, | of so much du- 
plicity, and,: indeed, of downright, unequivocal; and 1 
ble falsehood: It would be a breach of confidence; 
it was committed to him in all the Security of private corress 
pondence. It would beungrateful, because | had oftem exerted: 
myself.in his favour; and at that very time was exerting —_ 
in his behalf, by his earnest request ;.-whiche: 
ed in obtainizig-for him an addition of £50 per anm, to his 


‘This he afterwards very gratefully’ acknowledged: — zones Az 


4 
& 


be marked-with gross! duplicity, because he appeared ‘tobe 


displeased at being even-suspected of knowing any thing about | 


the matter. Aind it would be undisguised falsehood ; because 
he has plainly and unequivocally declared, that he did not shew 
it. I cannot suspect any gentleman in the Ministry, of such 
complicated: baserie’s. There must’bée:some ue 
these gentlemen: must settle itbetweenthem. = 

The next subject. for consideration, is thé” chjbediomtie © 
matter of, this letter... And here the first item pai 
itself, is whats said) concerning. the controversy. : I'fe 
T am.treading on delicate ground: . But on:the pre 
on, my real sentiments; must he’ spoken. Hitherto, ‘these sex 
timents have been’ known but to very few. And from/this 


ax 


> 
x 


* ae 


cause, .whztever evils have resulted from.this' subject; sprenediihg 


borne my share of the blame. .. But:still, I donot approve 

controversy:; Ineyer: have approved of the controversy. - And? 
in this T am not singular. Several of my Brethren:in the Minis» 
try are of the same sentiments. .. And from this consideration, 
in good measure, has the unwarrantable opposition tous arisen. 
We. will not yield to those who. are willing torrush into the 


% 


23: 


front ranks ef the. contest; we will not yield in‘attachment to the: 
Church;. in admiration of her principles, in affection for her’ 
government and worship, orinacknowledgment.of the divine: 
authority of her Priesthood... Nor will we blame any for incul-. 
cating, these points on their.own people, and from-their- own. . 
pulpits. wAnd we are willing to-allow the same right 'to other: 
denominations. But we do disapprove, and we have disap- 
proved, on both sides of the question, of bringing these matters: 
into. public contest. We disapprove of it, because it is im- 
prudent, it is inexpedient, it ig attended-with little good, and: 
ts the cause of much evil. - .+leum, EF rif 
-. The only other point which can be excepted to, is, what is 
said about the publishing of pamphlets. Of this I must be al~ 
lowed to give some elucidation. The Protestant Episcopab 
Society, for the promotion of religion and learning in the State 
of New-York, appropriated, in the year 1806-7 two hundred 
and fifty dollars forthe printing and distributing of religious 
tracts. The applying of this sum to the purpose designed was 
committed tothe Bishop andthe Clerical members of that Soci- 
ety. The Committee met, and out of consideration of the ex- 
penseincurred by Dr. Hobart, in publishing Dr. Chandler’s life 
of Dr. Johnston, which however he had done on his own voluns 
tary motion, they. agreed te appropriate $100 to the purchase of 
anumber of copies of that production: ~The remaining one 
hundred and. fifty dollars it was agreed should be applied to the 
_ printing of the tracts mentioned in my letter. Some mention 
was also made of getting the Bishop to publish his Sermon on 
« the duty of fulfilling all righteousness.” Instead of the tracts 
mentioned, Dr. Hobart wished to be authorized to make a 
compilation from « the Churchman’s Catechism” by Jones, and 
the first principles of religion, by Bishop Burgess. This was, 
howeyer, over-ruled. Dr. Hobart was displeased at this disap- 
pointment; and after the breaking up of the Committee, declar- 
ed that he would. publish that. compilatiom in-his own nathe. 
The compilation has, however, never appeared. Dr. Hobart, 
asSecretary of the Society, was directed to carty the objeet 
into effect, by contracting with the printer for the pamphlets. 
No account was-ever rendered either to the Committee or to 
the Society of the fulfilling of the tru-t. ~And the trust wag 
never fulfilled. After waiting a considerable time, after the 
period necessary for effecting thepublication, I enquired of the 
Bishop whether -the pamphiets had been published ? He said, 
that he had seen and - heard: nothing of: them; and that “he 
did not know the reason why. Some time after, meeting 


® 
Po 


we 
24 


the Bishop and Dr. Hobart we the Vestry room'¢ 
Trinity Church, I enquired of Dr. Hobart in the presence 
the Bishop, whether the pamphlets ‘which “had been agreed! 
upon were published? He: hesitated »- and. with a little of 2 
stammering manner, said, “ why the Bisho 
« printed.” As the Bishop was present I could 
further on the subject. Reflecting, however, o 
the manner seemed a little strange; and kn 
rinting of the Bishop’, Sermon could not take $1 aaghe 
ail rele could not be-right. .This determined repens 
the Messrs. Swords and examine the account 5: arid th ‘ : 
that the surplus money had been applied ina manner. 
from what had been ordered :' according to the follow 
count; which by my request was handed to me by Mr. yieed 
Pepe ir. big 
1806. Oct. 30th. 4 Li ife of Fobnson, and sundry Prayer Lai a + 
Books, tothe Rev. Mr. — pr pagel 
, order Dr. Hobart, © 
Nov. 22d. » Printing Bishop Moore's Bichon - 60 00 
‘ Li ife of Dr. Fobnston, delivered pode 28 # 


’ dry times, 


1807. Apr. 10th. 1 Doz. Prayer Books, to Mr. Prentice 
Cents 25th. 24 Prayer Books, and 5 doz. and 4 Cant hosed a 
3 ©: techismsto Mr. Fudd and Mr. eT 
‘ - Oct. 12th. 40 Prayer Books, to Mr. Phelps and Hist 
i Mn Baldwins 2a om "97-50 


17th. 6 Do. to Mr. Butler, oor 431 
Nov. 17th. 18 Do. and 36 Catechisms to Mr. ~  ° 
Prentice, hay veggie 
Dees. Sundries to Mr. Nash, +) RGR LAR 1679 é 
, Y 2 . - ‘ - ¢ fi e oO te - 
- 250-00 
HRSG pga si y 


. By the abu pninly it appears that the: money was not 
applied as had been ordered. : Besides it was not applied eco 
gomically, as it ought to have been, and as it would have b 
had it been appropriated in the manner ordered. © For, ‘the pur- 
chasing of book; in small quantities, cannot be husbandin ‘and 
money to somuch advantage, as, by the printing of ‘a whole 
edition of asmallwork. The only order which is noted, was 5 by 
Dr. Hobart; and I recollect to have understood at the’ time, 
from Mr. Swords, that by the same order, the whole distribu 
tion wa: made. It must have been so; for to him alone et 
applying of the money was committed. “Calling, however, 


"4, 


ap 


25 

‘Mr. Swords the other day for'a thote regular account, I reveit 
ed from him an intimation that the Bishop probably gave an 
order for some of the books: -This is his thought, now in the 
year 1811. ‘But he was unable by his references to'make this 
appear. » It is probable that his mind has been put'upon this 
train of thought. ‘The thing is, however, utterly improbable; 
vunless indeed, in the case of the Life of Dr. Johnson. ‘For, 
had the Bishop given orders for any of the other books, he 
. ever could, and never would have said, that he did not know 
the reason why the pamphlets were not printed. And more- 
over, this would have afforded a ready answer from Dr. Hobart, 
without his stopping with saying, ¢ mae the Bishop’s Sermon 
‘was printed.” 

T have been led involuntarily’ ifito this exposition of that 

business, in order to vindicate myself, for having incautiously 
mentioned jt to one, with whom I was in the habit of most 
familiar correspondence. ‘This mention arose from the train of 
thoughts then oceupying my mind. According to these, we 
are apt to speak in our familiar intercourse with a friend. But 
had I gone’ still further, I should hot have exceeded the bounds: 
fpropriety. As a member of the Society for the promo- 
tiom of religion and learning,” and especially as a member of 
‘the Committee by which the appropriation was made, and the 
Specific object designated for which that money was appropri~ 
ated, Thad a right to entef a formal complaint against Dr. 
Hobert; for the non-fulfilment, or rather, the misapplication 
of the trust committed to him. But I mentioned it tono one, 
except to one or two particular friends. 
‘Dr. Hobart has said-a ‘great deal about evlogizing me, while 
Iwas wounding him in the dark. For his eulogy, I really 
am much obliged to him. But certainly I am not disposed to 
pay him so bad a compliment, as to suppose that while he was 
pronouncing my éulogy, he did not believe that I was deserving 
of it. - And he has‘not been able, as far as has come to. my 
knowledge, to find out any thing which would prove me un- 
worthy of ity except this same unfortunate letter. -This'is the 
only wounding in the dark, which he has: preduced 5 5 and. which 
yet has made so great a noise. 

Till for some time before that period, I was’ also the eaten 
gist, and not only so, but the warm and active friend of Dr.’ 
Hobart: and I was so, because I verily did believe him deserv~’ 
ing of every thing which I said or did for-him. But, forsome 
time before the period referred to, matters began’ to wear a’ 
arene aspect. -A selfish.spirit began to unfold itegHfy Self 

4, 


“= 
oo’ 


wg 


26 


exaltationyevidently” appeared. to me, to- be his 
of action. This persuasion, a-train of events wine fully 6 


. justify. He had been assuming power and authority into his. 
been endea- 


: 4 


hands, to which he was’ nét entitled. He had 

vouting to get his particular subservient Clerical friends, one 
after another, into.the Church in this city 5 and. had used his 
utmost exertions, to keep out. every one, who might seem to 
be likely to stand in the way of his plans. To: 

points, by adducing. particular instances, would carry me too 
far beyond my object at present. I must, rectr to 

some future occasion, should it be found necessary But 

is one matter of moment, .illustrative of this system, which 
ought to be particularly noted here ; because it belongs express# 
ly ‘fo this: period. I must beg to be pis: ‘in. stating it 


clearly. rote en erage 
It 13 uniformly te policy, ne Trinity Church, and it is cere 
tainly.a sound, and a wise policy, to guard every 


like electioneering, in the choice of Vestries. Ina ead of so 
much, and such momentous business, the prevalence of a. spir 
rit.of intrigue at.elections, would be attended with the most 
direful.effects.. ‘This sentiment I had often heard 

Dr. Hobart. But in 1808, he departed from it, to serve] 
own. purpose.. I must be allowed to speak plainly, Truth: r 
my own vindication require it of me. 


» In-order.to guard against all division. and opposition, f Pres | 


ysual, previous tg an election, for the Committee of leases to. 
make out a ticket of such as are thought to be suitable for 
members; and there is seldom any opposition ticket-run. It 
happened, that at the Easter election in 1808, two vacancies 
were to be filled wp. Dr. Hobart, had used all his influence 
to get his bosom friend, Mr. Mackie, nominated. In this he — 
proved unsuccessful. His next object. was to carry the point — 
by electioneering. For this purpose, a person, was sent 

Trinity Church, to influence the members as they came ae 


vote, and to put tickets into their hands; and that ijn j 


sent by. Dr. Hobart. This I assert positively, and 
fear of contradiction. And, if Dr. Hobart is 
deny; I pledge myself to establish it by irrefragable proof. 
Let it be,remembered, I wish. not to imsinuate by this, a 


unfavourable idea, with respect to Mr. Mackie. As a1 member 


of the Church, and an excellent man, I highly respect him. 
But, against the other member proposed, no objection was 
to be made. And against the. confidential, and warm: friend. 


ef my colleague, there was this reasonable objection—that 


? bog 
¥ 


f A] 
wt 


« 


we 


¢ 


~ 


2 


it would i siatconcend to givmg Dr. Hobart.a ‘seat at the 
Board. I had, however, nothing.to do with the elections 
Tt was not my business, and £ never have. interfered. 
_ . These circumstances will account for my looking on the 
course of passing events with a jealous eye; for my mind’s 
being occupied with this train of thoughts; and for ous iving 
vent to some of them, when. writing confidentially to a 
vane correspondent ~~ 

From the conclusion of my letter of August 9th, pine: 
hares it wili appear that I contemplated a little tour up the 
country; where I had never been, though born in the States 
And to this,-I had often been invited by Mr. Prentice and his 
friend at Athens. It happened, that about the beginning of 
the ensuing month, an opportunity offered, by the Ordination 
of Mr. David Moore, and his being yet free from settlement . 


in the duties of a parish.. Of this I gladly availed myself, ~~ 


as he was’so good as to offer his serivces.. 1 aecordingly paid» 
a visit to Ballston and Lebanon, and the principal intermediate 


places on both sides of the river. @n my way up; ! stoppedat - 


Athens;at which place I officiated,andat Gomdia kick and Hudson. 
Imthe journey to.and from these places, Mr. Prentice accom 
ied me. On the road, he observed in conversation, that 
he had learned with regret, from 2 gentleman in the neighbours 
hood, that there was a system of favouritism pursued in the 
city. Iremarked, that. it was to be lamented, that-such was 
too much the case. And that, on the other hand, there was 
too much. of a system of denunciation. Of this I mentioned 
as instances, the opposition made to Dr. Moore and Mr. Feltuss 
Asa coasequence of these measures; Iremarked that much 
uneasiness was created in the minds of the Clergy, and that 
some began to think it was time to endeavour to put a stop te 
this system, and had thoughts of endeavouring to turn ow Dr. 
Hobart from the office of Secretary, which gave him.a 


opportunity of promoting his private views. Mr. Prentice, 


as far as I recollect, expressed his disapprobation of the mea+ 
sures mentioned, and acquiesced in the propriety of the step 
which was said to be likely te be taken. 

This was the sum of the conversation, according to the 
best of my remembrance.’ From this conversation ‘alone, 
could Dr. Hobart*have drawn his conclusion, that -a 
plan was~ formed for turning him out of the office of Secre- 

. .No other conversation have. I the slightest recollection 
_ of, as Ahaving relation to the case. And, indeed, to this con~ 
wersation, have Dr. Hebart and Mr. How constantly -had re- 


2 


28 
ference, when speaking in relation to the formation oleh 
plan.. And, therefore, in whatever way Mr. Prentice “may at. 
tempt to account by suggestions for the discovery of my letter 
to him, yet, here he must himself have’been the immediate 
discloser. But I positively aver, and am: ready to challenge 
him for the truth of the declaration, that I did ‘not, under any 
form, mention to him that’ such a plan ak Peri: . did 
not ask him to give his vote against Dr. id ¥ 
#ell how I should vote myself. ‘I sive aver, a ee 
did ask any one member of the Convention to vote 
Dr. Hobart; and that no such combination or plan as 
mentioned, was formed. . And Mr. Harris and Dr. Moore are 
ready to declare the same, as far as their knowledge extends. 
That individuals did talk among themselves on a 
of such a measure, is what I never have denied. And 
~ Dr. Moore declares, was the whole amount ofa conversa 
chad by him with Mr. Lyell; from which the certainty of th 
supposed plan has been attempted to be deduced. It ought to 
be recollected ‘also, and this ought certainly to have a con- 
clusive weight, that when, on the 5th of June 1809, some 
short time after the above conversation with Mr. Prentice 
took place, I called on Dr. Hobart for the proof of his -decla- 


ration on this point, and defied him to produce it; he waved 


the ‘question and endeavoured to. draw from me the acknow- 
ledgment ‘of my having said, that he cet to be pie owt 
of his office. a 

I have been thus particular in stating the circumstances, 
respecting the letter to Mr. Prentice, and conversation had 
with him; in order that their full weight might be seen, even 


had no after understanding and compromise taken place on 


. the points. But, in fact, whatever might have been the na- 


ture of these measures, and however culpable their whieh De 


it was all cancelled by the solemn engagement into which - 
Hobart and I entered on the 13th of June 1809, by the ex- 
press proposition of Dr. Hobart himself. In order to make 
this point appear beyond the possibility of a doubt, I shall soni 
insert the testimory of Mr. Harris to this effect. =~ Hf 

of ‘ 
This may Certify, That on the 15h of June 1809, Dr. 
‘Hebart and Mr. Fones met at my house, with a view to a recon- 
cilement of differences that had for some time past subsisted between 
them.—The principle upon’ which they met, and in my presence 
agreed to adopt, was, that whatever had passed between them ff a 
asthenia nature, prior to’ the above date, should be buried in 


oe 


e 


3 


bs 


29 
oblivion; that they were then to set out de novo; and I understood 
this agreement to embrace, on the one hand all the circumstancesof 
Mr. Gillet’s case, and on the other, all the particulars of a conver* 
sation which Mr. Fones had with Mr. Prentice; and every thing 
relating to a letter written by him to the said gentleman—and more- 


ever, I understood from this agvecment, that these matters were 
never again ti be brought into altercation. - : 


‘ ; oe . WILLIAM HARRIS. 
_ April 81h, 1811. 


~~ 


Here then we were to set out entirely anew. The whole 
business of Mr. Prentice, be its nature what it might, was to 
be forgotten. All future actions were tobe tried by their own 
intrinsic merit or demerit. From the. condition which I had 
stipulated, that we should behave to all our brethren with 
‘equal justice, it was understood by me that I should not be 
considered as giving just cause of offence in exchanging with 
any Clergymen in the neighbourhood, with whom | should 
think proper. Such also was the opinion of Mr. Harris, whe 
‘was present at the interview, and whom I afterwards consulted 
on this point, in order that I might not do any thing which 
could be considered as incorrect, or as a departure from the 
Stipulated agreement. My opinion with regard to the pro- 
ceedings by individuals against Mr. Feltus, were previously 
known ; and therefore, I must be considered as left to behave 
towards him as my own judgment might dictate. And Dr. 
Moore had already settled in the city, in the congregation of 
St. Stephens, and no just cause of offence had been alleged 
against him. There appeared then, no reason why I should act 
4m an unfriendly way towards these gentlemen. And it will ap- 
“pear by the first conversation detailed hereafter, that, with re- 
gard to Dr. Moore in particular, this was the opinion of Dr. 
Hobart also. 

_ Atrain of events, however, now opens, which are entirely 
at variance with these conclusions; and to justify them, the 
very circumstances of the case of Mr. Prentice were revived, 
which it had been agreed should be buried for ever. No others 


have been brought forward of adate subsequent to June 1802. 


30 


Hitherto. Dr. Hobart hag "been alone concerned? 
+ spring of 1810, an unity ign, and conformity of 
seems to have orice between him, Mr, How, and Mi 
What follows, will therefore at. diffe 
to each of these: Ishall insert. the di 
manner in which they were taken down, at the di 
mentioned. ‘They were prefaced as follows: Wy 


AS Lam seriously apprehensive that the affairs a 
in this city are drawing to a crisis; and that-somé unhappy 
Sequences will ensue; when it may be necessary to recur t 
and dates; it appears proper; while the circumstances ar 
in my mind, to set down the substance, and, as far as I can ree 
collect, the particulars, of some late conversations had with the 
parties mentioned.—For the truth of the relation in ever 
ticular, as far as my memory serves, and without any mi 
reservation, E solemnly pledge my veracity 5 ‘and shall be re 
should I. be called on. :Personally»: to es it ‘Ca vE sacred oath: 

E JONES 
pe ork, April 7th 1810. |. ’ ’ 


At a maciaas of tie Standing Committee held ; 
on the 20th of last month, after the business 
and when the Clerical.members were alone, 
Beach, the Rev. Mr. Harris, the Rev. Dr. Hobart and m 
being present, Dr. Beach took an early opportunity, which 
appeared to be by design and pre-arrangement, to introduce» 
a conversation concerning the Rev. Dr, Richard C. Moore. . 
The irregularity of his-proceeding in the holding of his private 
societies was.descanted on, and an intimation was thr . 
by Dr. Beach, whether it was not proper that he should be left 
to himself, ‘and that we should have nothing to-do with hin 
(Thisis in fact the plan that had been pursued by all, — 
Mr. Harris.and myself. The Bishop, though he had not 
terchanged with him, had been on terms of famili ar int 
course.) To this Dr. Hobart made answer, that in 
it appeared to him, every one ought to be left to hig own d 
cretion. For his own part, he had adopted his plan of proc 
dure with regardto Mr. Moore; and he was ready i Vv 
reasons, whenever they should be required. He afterwa 
declared that he looked upon Dr. Moore to bean ur nworthy 
~ character, that he was a popularity-hunting, ‘spiritual: dema- 
as & gue, who was carried away by his passions, and was not to. 
trusted.—Mr. ae remarked, that if he were such, and oe 


A BS ; ; * uf 


$t 


Canons of the. Church, as was alleged, he 
alled to account; that the Canon ought - 
or it ought to be en rced ; \and he appealed 
whether I would notin such case, Be Hs the: authorj- 
Church, and, provided Dr.. Moore were declared irre- 
hether I would not break off all interCourse with him, 
still persist. _Lanswered, most assuredly I should ;. 
j ked, that this appeared to me the proper mode of . 
procedure, and that then, every Clergyman would .know what 
he had todo, whereas by the mode proposed, individuals were 
taking the authority of the Church in theit own hands.. -Dr.: 
Hobart replied, .No::he should be decidedly o posed to any 
judicial proceedings against Dr. Moore. ‘This was the very 
thing he would desire. It would only imcrease his consequence 
by affording hima convenient plea for raising the cry of perse~ 
cutic In continuation. of my answer to the appeal from 
Mr. I arris, I remarked, that no one was more opposed"to the 
societies. than myself, and that I. had not concealed my senti- 
ments from Dr. Moore himself—(to this Mr. Harris attested, 
hat I had spoken to Dr. Moore on the subject, in his pre- 
sence, in terms of disapprobation.) I had taken an early op- 
portunity, shortly after Dr. Moore’s acceptance of the call 
from St. Stephens, to.arm his mind against an application 
which he might. reasonably expect froma certain part of the 
edngregation : and had intreatéd him to fix his ground fror 
the first; and if any duties were required of him, besides 
these on Sundays, that he would confine his services to the 
Chureh. When..I was afterwards informed that he did 
meet. with the secieties, I took the earliest opportunity to 
expostulate with him. In vindication, he alleged, that what 
he had’consérited to, was a compromise; that he had been 
solicited to. meet them every week, which he refused; but, 
being hard pressed, had agreed to meet the communicants im 
the week previous to. the-administration of the Ordinance; 
which was every sixth week. Still I pointed out the evils which 
would result, and earnestly intreated him to take his stand, 
before he put it heyond his power. On this conversation, he 
proposed to-Jeave it to the Bishop, and promised to abide by _ 
the Bishop’s detetmination. On this application, I had learnt, 
the’ Bishop had said, . he would not forbid. the meeting in 


» 


societies; he knew not .that it was contrary te any Canons 


and every Clergyman must use his discretion,as to what weuld 
be beneficial to his own parish. ‘This; I remarked, had 
deprived. me of every argument, .and had prevented me from 


e* 
4 


urging the subject f 3 

must be some ate in this | 
op had pointedly d 

bation of the sya Nant be woul 


qphothex Dr. Moore had not p vr 
ing to St. Stephen's, that:he C0 
societies? La red, that was, not “s 
though I had ae 
he would be regular, and would ‘un asian 
of his brethren in the city. Dr. Beach said, 
had expressly pratoiiedl it to him, when: wear > 
St. John’s... LARGE 
Reflecting Picoriils on pthe subjects of this cc 
I thought it best that it should not be made know 
solved with myself not.to communicate it in any 
Moore ; which resolution has been. strictly adher 1 to 
will be hereafter mentioned and the reasons ass gt 


P] a - ve 

22 oft. 20) Sole stg gee 

*.. melY os " e . dey t mf ‘ 
ae fat : We hi) 5% ee 3 


a bithe pte of Mr. beckanice Dr. Hobart was atcha tebe | 
atély engaged. Butit isa part of the-same'overbearing systen 
and was carried on by his ‘coadjutors Mr. How and i a 
The circumstances were noted down at the tim@ above meh- 
tioned: Viz. April 7th 1810, and.are-as follow. © =) 
On yesterday a week, obsight was the 30th of March, a: 
prayers at Trinity Church, on invitation from” : 
How, I met at the College with the said gentleman, 1 
with the Rev Dr..Bowden and the Rev. Mr. Lyell, w 
been, together with me, presenters in the case of Mr 
Dr. Bowden opened the conversation by observing, ’ 
letter to the Bishop accompanying Mr. Ireland’s me 
Mr. Ireland, had remarked that some of the elder 
been consulted on the subject, and they had er 
presenting of the memorial; and they, the gentle nty 
wished to know, whether 's had given encouragement that > 
measure? l answered that I had given no encouragement 5 that 
Thad not been consulted ; that I had never seen the memorial, 
a knew not its contents ; that Thad never spoken with Mr. * 


¥ ra 


ae nS f 25) 8 


subject, nor with any person known to be author- 
that what had been said to me, and by me, on 
ad been in a passing way; and that then, I had always 
cautious, and endeavoured to avoid saying any thing, 
tin any wise commit me; that Fhad thought the 
as fast sinking. into, oblivion, until since the publi- 
e Bishop’sgeport to the Convention, in the Magazine, 
obart, by which, as I was one day told, the friends of 
a and, and the relations of his family were much exaspe- 
ca rated, and even)those who before had thought him deserving 
of the sentence passed, now began to consider him as cruelly 
treated ; that a great ferment was raised, and it was not pos- 
sible to tell what would be the consequence, but they were de- 
termined to use some coercive measures to obtain redress ; it 
was said further; that two repectable lay gentleman had been 
consulted, and had given it‘as their opinion, that the first two 
charges could not be sustained. I observed further, that ina 
‘subsequent conversation with the person who had mentioned 
the above circumstances, he informed me that as a previous 


aise no unnecessary obstacles in the way.* Dr. Bowden ob- 
Served, that he was sorry to hear that I had made that observa- 
tion,, that it no doubt had encouraged them to proceed. I re- 
plied, it could not encourage to proceed, because it was after 
the measure was determined on. Mr..How, in a very i mperious 
tone and authoritative manner, addressed me, to the following 
effect: «Mr. Jones, you ought to hee. taken a decided 
ground; you ought to have said, This business has been 
conducted with the utmost regularity, I approve of ‘the 
sentence, I will support it in all its parts, and I. will 
Oppose any attempts at a rehearing, with all my might.” 
I replied with coolness, “Mr. How, I do not think E 
ought. You are perfectly right to judge. how you ought to 
dos, but you will be so good as to give me the same liberty.” 
Mr. Lyell then remarked,) «That Dr. Moore should encourage 
a plan of this kind, was to be expected : he has been opposed. 
to the sentence from the beginning. But we certainly had a 


é 


_ * Some further reasons were offered, and some other, remarks were made 


_ by me when the above circumstances were first stated to me, which di: not ‘ 
_ occur to me, tostate to the gentlemen, but which will be found in my state~ : 
ment to the Bishop, : ; - 


re) 
; 


rig ght: to expect that Mr. Jones oe 
, “You, Sir, were’ rst proposer 0! 


¢ the principal lead in the enqulee 
is in your own hand writing.” I replies 
‘seem to be very desirous to palm upon 
inconsistency. On ‘a former o¢casion, w 
tioned a conversation between ” Dr. rd 
(as to what we expected would be the sen 
to make it appear that I had cast a censure 
done. And now you want to make good the 
‘because I have not acted just in the way that you th 
to have been done. I must therefore beg leave t 
As to what is said’about “my being the first propecia 
“enquiry and the presentment ; that is incorrect.” * I 
‘here interfered, and said they did not wish to pre 
F begged, however, to'be allowed to proceeds b 
T was charged with inconsistency, I was desirous’ to re 
‘charge. i accordingly continued :—« I did indeed 
‘the unéasiness ‘existing at Jamaica, and the unhapp 
‘quences which ‘were likely to ensue from the expe ect 
“ment of Mr ireland there. But 1 can bring 
attest, “that this was done only with’a view to ’ 
for the prevention of those consequences, wi 
‘glance at a presentment of Mr. Ireland. Th 
‘led indeed to an investigation of ‘the conduct of M 
and it was determined ‘upon, that an enquiry oug ought to 
instituted. The proposition, however did not ‘come from i : 
‘Twas desired to undertake it in conj unction with others ;_ 
Tid not feel at liberty to refuse. ‘The office that ‘was thus laid 
upon me, I felt! it iy duty to discharge with fidelity and cor= 
rectness as far as in my power. But when the duty oF pre- 
senter was discharged, when the business was laid before th 
cotrt, and the testimony was adduced, I considered mv es 
having nothing more to do with the event: it was deliverec 
over irito other hands, and I was no longer responsibl 
had I any business to interfere. I have uniformly ac 
this prmciple; and have always been cautious not't og 
judgment on the case, and indeed, to remain ery sile 
{ might say something which would commit me. Surely 
order to be consistent, it was not necessary that I shou 
violent-~” Mr. How and Mr. Lyell with piers eg 
hare interrupted ; «¢ Do you then intend to charge us with being 


twas made, 1 think, by Dy, Bowden; though 1 gid not then mene | 
ica it. 3 


35 


Gentlemen,” said I, “I am not speaking..of 
Iam only vindicating my ¢ own.” 

é nes of Dr. Moore and Mr. Feltus had been entice 
rent parts of the conversation. Mr. How said, that their 
uct, in endeavouring to obtain for Mr. Ireland.a rehearing, 

M outrage against the authority of the Church; that ig 
thly censurable ; and that their a was very appar- 
\d_ utterly unworthy. In reply, I said,.that I hoped 

they were actuated by no unworthy motive; and that I had 
heard them declare, that they intended to ‘proceed not one 
step further than they considered their Christian duty to an 
unhappy individual required. In some connexion, which EF 
Vv do not recollect, Mr. How declared without qualification, that 
Dr..Moore was unfit to be in. the Ministry. And Mr. Feltus, 
he said, had acted a shameful part. in having any thing to say, 
to such a wretch as Ireland. He ought not to have treated 
him .with common civility. _He ought not evento have spoken 
to him. « Oh,” said I, «Mr. How, surely we ought to pity 
while we condemn; and to feel for an unhappy mortal, even 
while we consider it our duty to be the inflictors of punish- 
ment.” «<No,” said he, “ a-wretch that is under the censures 
of the Church, ought not to have the least countenance. We 
ought to extend to him nothing but the necessary oilices of 
~ mercy.” <« Well,” I replied, «I can never believe that the 
censures of the ‘Church are to steel the heart against the 
feelings of humanity.” 

Mr. Lyell then put the question, “ what do yon think of 
Dr. Moore—Is. he not living in the breach of a Canon?” If 
answered, “ with regard to this, I will answer you with can- 
dour. With respect to the Societies (though I much disap- 

¢ prove of them; and have used all my influence with Dr. 
Moore to persuade him to relinquish them) there is certainly no 
Canon against them, as such. And as to the using of extempore 
-ptayer, after the lecture, which is either all that Dr. Moore 
does, or intends to do, I cannot take upon me to say that it is 
an express breach of the Canon; because I had it from Mr. 
Dehon,* that the question. was left open to construction, 
and undecided by the Convention.” Besides, I. remarked, 

-_ why should we be so very exact as to one, while others 
. could violate the Rubric’ and Canons, without molesta- 
"tion or censure?” Mr. How asked “ who did so?” [ an- 

_swered, “ why Mr. Lyell here himself either does, or has 
me it; and no fault was found, and no interruption of iater- 


* Who was a member of the convention by which the Canons ere revised. 


36 


coutse was produced.” Mr. Lyell then fell 
of anger, and_denied the fact; though T afterw 
ence to circumstances, softened him  down.* 
pleaded the necessity of the case,” as Iremine 
Dr. Moore now did the same. Mr. How 
€ase must be consideted by itself; and sta 
foundation. Jae ie 
In art earlier part of the conversation, mention 
of some anonymous letters which had lately been 1 
the Bishop and others; and Mr. Lyell, by several 
endeavoured to impress those present with the idea that D 
Moore is. to be suspected as the author. 1 could not he 
remarking that I-hoped he was incapable of so base and medi 
an act. It was also observed by the same ara Se 
considerable warmth, though I do not immediately remem- 
ber the connexion, that Ur: Moore must ‘beware, for that 
there is a rising spirit of discipline taking place in the Church 
which perhaps: will: place ‘him just where he ought to-be’ “I 
answered, it appeared tome, this would be the proper modé 
of procedure: if Dr. Moore is acting amiss, let him be ealled 
to account, and then ‘every one would know what ihe 
take. : x P wkd yee 
As reference was made in the above interview to a formet 
conversation had on the same subject, and with the same geri- 
tlemen, it seems proper to give herea more particular relat 
tion of it. It took place some time after the trial of Mr 
freland; but the date is not remembered, as the circum- 


st, d0 


Stances were not then considered of sufficient moment to be — 


particularly noticed. Taken, however, in connexion with what 
is related above, it will tend to elucidate the system which is 
intended to be pursued. The circumstances were the fol 
lowing. I was called aside one day in Trinity Church, after 
service, by the same gentlemen, when Dr. Bowden mentione 


that they had learned with some surprise, that I had of en , t 


expressed a disapprobation of the sentence passed on’ Mr. 
freland. Ireplied, that was a mistake: I had never express- 
ed an opinion on the case. The utmost that I had dene was 


to say that the sentence was more severe than I had counted - 


on; and mentioned a conversation which had passed between Dr. 
Bowden and myself, in which we agreed in supposing that the 


_ sentence would be suspension, until satisfactory proofs of reform- 


# 


¢ 


_ 


e were given, ‘ Oh!” said Dr. Bowden, « if'that was all, 
lave told the same myself.” I continued, « and this was 
* The fact however is susceptible of proof, : 


37 


not spoken publicly ; but was just mentioned in passing, in the 
presence of Dr. Moore and Mr. Harris, who were condemn 
ing the severity of the measure when I, »by way of reply, 
observed,’ “ why, I must confess, it was more severe than I 
expected,” and added what is detailed before. . «*° Dr. Moore,” 
said o Lyell, «« we know has been from the first loud in 
his objections to the measure.” «* And Mr. Harris,’ * LT added, 
*¢ you know ‘has entered his protest against it.” * Yes,’ ‘he 
exclaimed, ‘and we ought to take care that Mr. Harris’shall 
have nothing more to do with the alent of the Spa 
concerns of the Church.” 

1 am perfectly certain of the correctness of this statement’; 


though it was not-noted down at the moment. Because T 


reflected much upon it, atid mentioned it to Mr. Harris 
‘shortly after. 

After our departure from the College, Mr. How and my- 
self walked together to the corner of Liberty-street. “We 
had proceeded but a little way, when he commenced a con- 
versation to the following effect : « Mr. Jonés, I believe you 
must acknowledge, that since my coming to the city, I have 

dtoyou inafriendly manner.” I (supposing that he had 
heard sometale to the contrary, answered,‘ Yessir,I have had fio 
xeason to complain, and have done. you the justice to acknow- 
Jedge it on all occasions.” “ Well, sir,” said he, “J deem 
it my duty to tell you, that the continuance of this friendly 
intercourse between us, must hereafter depend upon your ab- 
staining from introducing Dr. Moore and Mr. Feltus into our 
pulpits. The conduct of these men has been so outrageous, 
that I cannot consent to have any thing to do with a man 
who will give them any countenance.” « Why, really,” said 
I,“ it appears to me, that this ought to be left to each of us 
_to judge of for himself, and to act according to his owa discre- 
tion.” He replied, « No: connected as we aré’in the same 
‘Churches, I think Dr. Beach, Dr. Hobart, and myself, ought 
to be consulted as to who are to be introduced into oir 
pulpits.” Iremarked, « I never have undertaken to dictate 
to:my brethren, whom they are to interchange with; andY 
shall expect, in return, that they will not dictate to me.” He 
said, «* we do not’ wish to dictate; but it will be considered 
as so unfriendly an act to interchange with such a man as Dr. 
Moore, who is railing against us on all occasions, and Mr. 
Feltus, whon: we have no confidence in, that we! ae 
have any thing to do with the person who does it!” 
swered, “ This ought at least to be left to my friendship and 
discretion, But it becomes a very ac ere cae when it js 


38 
marked out as a line that must be pursued, under forfeiture: 
of friendly intercourse. I do not wish to do any which 
might justly be considered of an unfriendly | naturés *but 1 
must be left to act freely, according to the dictates of my. 
own judgment. In conclusion I remarked, . « had such an. 
intimation come from the -Bishop, it -would be perfee 
character, and would have a determining weight w 
but I never could consent that gentlemen of the same star 
ing with myself should dictate to me, what line of conduc 
should pursue.” Mr, How again disclaimed any intention. of 
dictating; but left me with saying, that there could be no 
friendship or intercourse between us, if I did not discontinue 
to countenance the gentlemen mentioned. mee) 

As we walked together for some distance, the conversation 
was frequently varied, and moulded into different forms, with 
the same ideas. gopeated: The foregoing was, however, the 
substance, and pretty nearly, if .not exactly, the terms used, 
At different periods, [ took occasion. to make some extenuating 
and et remarks with regard to the. anil censur- 
ed. ipeihers 

Reflecting on . this donvesetiies I determined. wi 
not to let any thing of it transpire to the persons co 
it would only tend. to widen the breach already unhappily ex- 
isting, This resolution was adhered to, as before, ae de: 

. previous to the meeting of the Convention, 1810. 


Page 


; 4 
: | 
As I had all along determinately set my face against the 
private societies (and this had repeatedly been made known 
my Colleagues by a confidential friend, as well as latterly by 
my own declarations,) and yet had heaped that by lenient de-. 
portment, and friendly. intercourse, I might have influence 
with Dr. Moore either to break off his connexion with them, 
or if that were impossible, which seemed to be the case, to 
transfer them to the Church; notwithstanding that the light in 
‘which the Bishop’s conversation. on the subject had been re- 
presented to me, disarmed me of much of the force of what 
i had to advance ;—perceiving now that the Bishop had taken 
ore opposing ground than had been understood; that 
ei cethren considered me as encouraging, irregularity ; and 
still further, that there seemed to exist in some of my Brethren. 


ne 
a 


ag 


59 


a disposition to render my situation uncomfortable, and to. 
turn to my disadvantage my deportnient towards Dr. Moore; ¥ 
came to a resolution the next day to break off all official. in- 
imtercourse’with that gentleman, until he should see proper 
either to discontinue his attendance upon the societies, or to 
hold the meeting in the Chureh, and to use the authorised Ser- 
vice. In the aiternoon I accordingly waited on Dr. Moore, 
and candidly stated to him my intention, and the reasons5 
which were, my own disapproval of the societies, as he knew, 
and the representation from all my Brethren, (the Bishop had 
never mentioned to me the subject) that | was encouraging it~ 
regularity. At the same time I informed him, that whenever 
he should see proper, or should find himself able; either to dis~ 
continue the ‘societies or to remove them to the Church; I 
should with pleasure renew with him the interchange of official 
duties; and it would give me happiness to use my influence and 
exertions to bring about, if possible,'a general reconciliationt 
Dr. Moore received my communication in a friendly way; and 
frankly said, that he did not wish that I should expose myself 
to the least censure by my good offices to him. At the same 
fimé he remarked, he wished it tobe understood, that it was 
his determination in time to come, to use in the societies none 
other prayers than the Service used on Sunday evenings in 
Trinity Church. 

In this conversation no mention whatever was made by me 
to Dr. Moore of what had passed concerning himself and Mr. 
Feltus, in the conversation with the other gentlemen. But 
just as we were entering the house (for what had passed was 
during a walk which I had invited him to take,) he asked me, 
* Do they allege any thing against me besides my attendance 
on the ‘societies ?”—«« Why,” said I, ** one did remark, that it 
would be ‘considered as a very unfriendly act in me to have 
any official intercourse with one who like you, is always rail- 
ing against them.’’—* How is it possible,” he replied, « that 
** I should abstain from expressing my sentiments; while they 
are thus goading me to death ?” 


—=009 O00 


After this conversation, and what had already transpired, I 
deemed it advisable, -in order that my conduct might appear 
inits proper light, to wait on the Bishop, and state to him fair- 


a 


40 
lythe part which I hadacted in eye 9 Mr. : we = 
¢€o: 


what steps I had taken with regard to ore: | 
quence, on Monday the ad of April, I Tae the Rev.. ts 
Harris, and desired ‘him to accompany fons ah 
which he accordingly did —After some ge 
L introduced to the Bishop, the object of; 
lowing manner: “i am really sorry Sir, that 3 
been worried -with the business of Mr. Ireland 5 
not now trouble you further on the subject, , were i 
frorn some conversation lately had with Dr. Bowden, \ 
and Mr. Lyell, 1 am) lead to apprehend, that some:1 
able impressions may have been made on your. mind v 
to the part which { have taken. Which impressi 
wade, I trust a relation of facts will effectually erase. 
éarly stage of this business, and before the memorial: 
éd-of, I plainly expressed to Dr. Moore my opinion, that b 
had better say nothing. on the subject, and my firm 
On that if he did take any interest in it, he would doar 
ty.to himself. His answer was such as I confess put. me to 
difficulty'to obviate. It was to this.effect : Suppose we cha- 
raeter/were, injured, and you were in _my estimati ast 
treated with severity ; would it not be my duty t 

to get the eyil corrected ? Now, in my heart I do think 
sentence passed on Mr. Ireland, is unduly severe; and t 1 
E cannot’ be charged with having been attached to Mr. In 
yet I wish to have justice done him, If therefore any thing ‘ 
that I can do, consistently with the duty, of a Christian, and 
without violating the rules and authority of the Church, ¢ 
obtain for him this justice 5 this I think it my duty to a 
farther than this it is not my intention to go.” Lreplied, «* welly 
Sir, iti t for me to direct your judgment; but n 
is that 3 a will i injure yourself.” | did entertain the 
this co was sinking fast into oblivion; and of la 
very little concerning it, until since the publication of 
Magazine, Some time after that event, it was miention 
that a great ferment was raised in Brooklyn, i in ¢on 
that step; that the friends of Mr. Ireland, were e3 
and determined to take some energetic and coercive 
to endeavour to get his sentence ameliorated ; and it 
possible to tell what would be the consequences. It was after- 
wards said to me, that two influential gentlemen of the laity 
had been consulted’ on the subject, and had given it as their 
opinion, that the first two charges could not be supported, 
in a Civil Court ; that one of these gentlemen, had waited on, 


AL 


you, Sir, to point out some of the difficulties attending this 
case, and to exhibit some instances from the English Ecclesi-’ 
astical reports, of compulsory methods being successful to ef- 
fect a restoration in circumstances somewhat similar; that 
Mr. Ireland declared, that some of the witnesses as to some 
Material facts were ready to acknowlege that they were in er- 
ror; and that you, Sir, had written on to Bishop White, to en- 


quire whether he knew of any precedent for a change of sentence 


under similar circumstances.” (The Bishop here remarked 
that this was'not trye} and that one of the gentlemen referred to, 
when spoken to by him, the Bishop, had scouted the idea of 
any cognizance being taken of the case by a Civil Court.) F 
remarked that I had not taken any steps to ascertain the facts, 
and therefore was unable to judge of their correctness. I thus 
proceeded :—<** I-was at this or some other time, in a passing 
‘ way asked if I knew of any precedents in the case, and whether 
T thought that a rehearing could be obtained, in order to pre- 
venta resort to more disagreeable steps? I answered, that I 
knew of no precedents, that it was unprovided for by any 
Canon, and that it was my opinion that any application fora 
rehearing would be ineffectual. In the last place I was told 
either by Dr. Moore or Mr. Feltus, or by both together, E 
cannot immediately recollect which, that Mr. Ireland had de- 
termined to present a memorial to the Bishop for a rehearing. E 
answered : “ Well, itismoconcern of mine, it will rest with 
the Bishop, and I shall raise no unnecessary obstacles in its 
way.” By this (addressing myself to the Bishop,) I could only 
mean, that I should not officiously intrude my opinion, to en- 
deavour to warp the Bishop’s judgment. In the whole of this 
business, Sir, 1 have acted upon the principle, that when the 
presentment was made, the witnesses were adduced, and the 
the business fairly laid before the Court, I had nothing further 


to do with it. It was then delivered over into other hands; and 


I had neither further responsibility resting on nie, nor right to: 
interfere. (‘ That,” said the Bishop, * was certainly a correct 
principle.”) «« And to shew you,” continued I, « that I have 
uniformly acted upon this principle, I will relateto you a con= 


yersation which) took place between Mr. How and myself. 


After the court had adjourned to take the case into considera-: 


“ 


tion, and shortly, I think, before the time appointed for its re~ 


assembling, Mr. How met me one day in the street, and 

accosted me thus: * We must now urge the degradation of 

Mr. Ireland.” I answered, «Why, that does not appear to 

he our province. Itrests with the Court; and we have nothing. 
6 


= 


42 ’ Y 


farther ‘to: do with the business,” ”—In conformity with this 

principle, I have been uniformly cautious when spoken to om 
the esubject ; and I never have expressed an opinion on the 

judgment. given,” Pil BOER iu 

~, At intervals m the sdavercatinn, i expressed Reicintion, 


‘that Dr. Moore had acted from a principle of duty; and and with- . 


out a wish to infringe on the aurhority of the Chure va 
that Mr. Feltus, by the steps which he had taken, wat 
desirous to restrain from violent measures, than to urg 
difficulties. which might be avoided; The, Bishop thén said, 
that he had been displeased with the part which they had taken 
and; (particularly. with their conversation which had takemplace 
ata late visit from them, since the presentment and. ‘rejecti 
of the memorial... But he remarked, that Mr. Beltus had si 
written to him making acknowledgments, which ‘was: 
satisfactory 5 and that therefore he should think no more: 
business) i gual! 
4 Athen. introduced the other subject, with regard tothe : = 
ues, . These), L remarked to the Bishop, I had been u 
ly-opposed. to, tly after the settlement of D 
St. Stephens, I ag an opportunity ta caution hit y again 
Keing. surprized inte an)attendance upon them. - He might 2x. 
pest) I-told him, an, application for that purpose; and I theres 
fore begged that-he would atnrhis mind against it; and persuad- 
ed him, should he be: applied to for any religious: services. be= 
sides; those on Sunday, to: insist. that these should be in the — 
Church. Though there was no actual promise made; yet, frony 
what was.seid, ¥ did understand that my advice would be fol- 
lowed. .When.k afterwards heard that he met with the Socie~ 


ties, cb took the earliest opportunity toexpostulate with him on 


the: subject, and. stated to him: candidly the evil co ices 
which would result. He remarked that his attendance was’ 
only partial, that. is; on the week before the Commut n; 
and:that this was 2.compromise witl those who were friendly 
to them,.and: who urgedhim to attend every. week. Taft terwards. 
met by accident with Dr. Mooreat Capt. Gillender’s, where [had 
called to,talk with the Captain on the subject. ‘Here we t : 
the matter over very freely in the presence of: Capt. Gille 
and I urged Dr. Moote very earnestly to discontinue his 
ance. Capt. Gillender said that it would be impossible, now 
that-he had commenced. Ianswered, No: this was the pro- 
per time, when he had just made a beginning 5 and he might 
represent, that it was contrary to the advice of all his friends. 
{ter much conversation Dr. Moore said, ** Well, I will put & 


5 


* 


43 


‘pon this footing, When the Bishop returns to the city, Iwill 
lay the matter before him, and will abide by his decision.” ¥ 
was sorry that it was put upon this footing, ‘and that Drs 
Moore did not immediately resolve to discontinue. But still I 
trusted that you would so determinately set your face aguirist 
it, as to prove an effectual bar. Yet hearing afterward that 
you had said, there is no Canon against such attendance; andi 
that every Clergyman: must use his own discretion, :as to thé 
means most likely to promote the welfare of his parish, ‘so h» 
do not violate any established rules, 1 was, I confess, disap 
pointed, and obliged tobe silent. -(tlere the Bishop explained. 
He said he had indeed mentioned what was related ; but-at the 
same time’ had expressed his disepprobation of the practice, 
and that it was disapproved of by all the Clergy ; and moreo= 
ver had pointed out the evil consequences: which would ensue- 
He had not indeéd absolutely forbidden them,becatse he did not 
know that he had authority so todo; but he had thrown every 
discouragement in the way. He had indeed been induced te ~ 
be cautious; because he had been advised by Capt. Gullender; 
that this was only intended to throw the reponsibility upon 
him.) I still had hoped to be able to persuade Dr. Moore ta 
relinquish his attendance; But finding lately that there was 
some misunderstanding as to the ground which the Bishop had 
taken ; and that my brethren considered. me as giving coun? — 
tenance to irregulatity, I had determined to: discontinue any 
exchange with Dr. Moore, till he should see proper to give up 
his attendarice on the societies, or should hold his Setvice in 
the Church, This determination I had communicated to the Dr: 
in afriendly way; at the same time informing him, that when» 
ever he should adopt the procedure mentioned, I should re- 
new my official interchange,’ and should be happy to be-instru- 
mentalin bringing abouta thorough reconciliation.” ‘The Bishop 
said, certainly: if Dr. Moore chose to open his church every 
night in the week, no one would have any right to complain. 
I then said, « One point {-was happy to mention: Dr. Moore 
had remarked at the close of the conversation last mentioned, 
that it was his determination in future, to use in the societies, 
uniformly and solely the Service of the Church as used on Sun- 
day evenings.” ‘The Bishop, replied, ‘his was ¢éttaiily going 


* 


a great way towards doing away-all cause of complaint.” — > 


44 
ON \ the Friday following, after prayers, on toming out of 
the Vestry room in Trinity Church, Dr. Hobart stopped me, 
and introduced the following conversation ; © 
. Dr. H. I wish to have some: conversation with you on the 
subject of Dr. Moore and Mr.*-Feltus.—The other day at the 
Standing Committee I mentioned it as my opinion, that in the 
business of exchanging, every oneought to be left to his own 
discretion. And this I think a correct: principle, ex except in - 
extreme cases. - But the presert appears to be one of these ex- 
treme cases. ‘The conduct of those gentlemen, ‘in the affair « 
Mr. Ireland, isso indecorous, that they ought not to be coun 
tenanced. "They heard that two lay gentlemen were opposec 
to that measure 5, and therefore thought that they should gair 
favour with those gentlemen, and obtain popularity by raising 
opposition; whereas, that ought to have been the very reason 
with them for endeavouring to have the discipline of the 
Church enforced. . Besides, Dr. Moore in particular is in the 
habit of railing against his brethren, and ‘me especially as 
not only ambitious, but actuated by unworthy motives. And 
my opinion with regard: to Mr. Feltus, is the same that it 
always has been, and that he is a man who is not to be de- 
pended on. - We have therefore come toa determination, that 
‘+we cannot have any intercourse with any pe who. L 
terchange withthem. i bed 
. Mr. F. With regard to what is alleged agli: these gen- 
‘tlemen, it is not necessary that I should become their apolo- 
gist: they must answer for themselves. But this dictation 
as to the persons with whom I am to exchange is what I newer 
can submit to. 
Dr. H. At ought not to be considered as a dictation. We 
only mean to say, that any interchange with the persons men- 
tioned, would be considered «as so unfriendly an act, as to 
preclude the possibility of any. friendly intercourse with the 
person who shall make it. . 4) CSE 
Mr. F. This ought certainly to be left to my friendship, 
after an intimation given of what would be agreeable 5 and not 
‘to be placed at the ‘outser under a penalty of the forfeiture of 
intercourse. eu 
Dr. H. The step eich I have taken in giving you the in- 
formation arises from candour ; that you might not have cause 
_ to complain of the consequences which will ensue, without your 
pe received previous warning. 
r. J. You may, if you please, put it upon this footing. 
But this holding of a rod over my head, in the threat of the 


Be 
y ' 


€ 


AS 
forfeiture of intercourse, is such a dietition, as I never can 
and never will submit to. 

Dr. H. You must not consider :t in the light ofa dictation: 
Tonly mention to yout the ¢ parece which must of peeesiny 
mers 

Mr. 7. Very well » and L ‘dill still use my own discretion 
in the case. 
se Sid 2 & Uridoubiadigs- And if we should be. ‘Ted to tile 
the steps mentioned; you will not have cause to complain of 
want of candour on our part. 

When we had arrived at the door of the Church, Dr: 
Hobart remarked, If you are desirous of preserving friend- 


ship, what has: passed between us had ‘better not be talked 


of. But if you choose to make it known, and to represent 
yourself as persecuted ; we shall then be obliged to explain 
circumstances, which will make the case appear in a. different 
light. I answered, Itis not my wish to doany thing which 
will create disturbance in the Church. ‘Then, said he, you 
had better warn Mrs: Jones against ‘making it public; because 
she has, to my knowledge, mentioned what passed with Mr. 
How, atleast to one person. He concluded by saying, ««E 
know you too es to suppose that you are to be driven from 


_ your purpose.” « Oh no,” Treplied, «¢I-am not easily to be 


intimidated.” « And you will find,” said he, that we e shall 
be firm.” «So E expect,” was my reply. 

On my return home, Ienquired of Mrs. Jones whether 
she had mentioned to any persons what had passed between Mr. 
How and myself, and to whom? She answered, that she had 
mentioned it in a passing way, to one lady, whom she named; 
and to no one else. As I wished to avoid every thing which 
could give a shadow of excuse for violent ‘conduct: on the 
other part; and desiring earnestly to keep the Church in. peace; 
I went to that lady in the evening, and requested her not to 
make any further communication of what had been made 
known to her by Mrs. Jones; and assigned as my reasons, 
what are noticed above, and my determination, that if any 
disturbance should arise, it shall not be caused by me. She 
said that she had without design, let it slip out to Dr. Hobarts 
‘but should be careful not to mention it again, 


46, 


AFTER having adopted the above mentioned line of, 
conduct towards Ur. Moore,and acted ‘Upon it,it was: mention 
to me by Mr. Harris, that Dr, Moore: had assured him,, Hg 


he (Dr. Moore) had of Jate used. in his ‘< nothing but 
the service of the ‘Church, and that it was his dete 


ter minaieo! to 
use none other for the time tovcome. ‘Tn congéqi 
this, Mr. Harris informed me, that it was his intention 
renew his official intercourse with Dr. Moore. On my pp! 
tion to. Dr Moore, he gave _me the same’ assuran ces... «| 
in my opinion, changed the state uf things, and took, 
occasion from me, of withholding from an intercourse. | But, 
that I might proceed on secure and proper grounds, I deter? 
mined, previously to taking any further step, to walt on thi ; 
Bishop, and take his judgment in the case. According! ry 
. onthe 7th of May, I called on the Bishop, and stated j 


substance of the facts abovementioned, with re gard to Dr, i, 


oore’s using none but the service of the Chelle and desired 4 
of him to be so good as to inform me, what was the proper 
line of conduct for me to pursue. He gave to.me as hig 
opinion, that there was no longer any reason why Dr. Moore 
should not be: exchanged with, in the same sadpagr 
other Clergyman, s eat 

Mr. Harris has informed me, that he had Wo yaited, 
the Bishop, who gave to him the same opinion; and moreo’ 
that the Bishop added asa reason: ‘ * Dr. Moore isa bs 
useful Clergyman, and a worthy man.’ x 
_ In consequence of this, pene to exchange po 
Dr. Moore, asin time past. But that I might not give any just 
cause of offence to my colleagues, in seeming to ‘treat them 


with neglect, I thought it proper to inform them, previously, . 


of my intention. Accordingly I wrote to Dy Mh wal 
accompanying Blk: dated May F4th, 1810.’ Yr. 


[COPY.} eg ieee 


Rev. and DearSiry ae «se 


AS the subject of an exchange of olbgh 
the Rev. Dr. Richard C. Moore, has been niatter of 
sation between us on a former occasion; Ideem it 
before 1 carry into effect the line of conduct which T itera 
to pursue, to apprize you of my intention and my reasons, 
in order that 1 may not seem to act, asI certainly do not act, 


se 


¥) 


AT 


ftom a Spirit of opposition to you. You will therefore receive 
this communication as a pled ge of my disposition to friend- 
liness. And i have adopted the present mode of conveyance, 
in order to avoid any itritation of io which might pos« 
sibly arise from a personal interview. 

Towards Dr. Moore, 2 wish and I intend only to pursue 
the same line of conduct, which I should feel it my duty to 
pursue towards any other Clergyman in the same situation, 
and under similar circumstances. ‘Lo such I do really feel myself 
bound, without regard to personal attachment or partiality, 
to treat them with friendliness, to regard them as brethren, 
and as such, to render them all the good offices in my power, 
particularly, by an undiscriminating interchange of official 
duties, as long as they do not glaringly violate the rules and 
orders of the Church. In matters which are not provided for, 
by these standing rules and orders, I do not feel a right to set 
myself up as judge. 

". By this principle, my seoectuet towards: Dr. Moore has 
hitherto beer regulated. “It has always appeared to me, that 
whatever tendency to itregularity he might be Supposed to 
possess, ‘would be most likely to be corrected by a mild 
and friendly deportment towards him:—that this would most 
readily seize his affections; and, by means of gentle persua- 
sives, would dispose him to adopt | such a line of conduct, as 
might seem correct to us. And you will pardon me, if ¥ 
offer it as my deliberate opinion, that, had this mode been 
adopted by all his brethren, on his rémoval to the ‘city; it 
would have been a very easy matter, to have prevented 
entirely his connexion with the private societies. To this 
| aire I have uniformly been opposed ; not because 

I thought any rule of the Church was violated by holdin 
societies, as: éuch, alone; but, because from principle | i 
disapprove of them. And, although the foundation on which, 
as I understood it, this matter was placed by the Bishop, 
greatly weakened my efforts; yet I never ceased to urge a 
discontitiuance. And this I was still in hopes to effect, by. 


“a friendly deportment. It was not till sonie short time ago, 


that I urxlerstood that the service of the Church was not used 
at these meetings; and learnt also from the Bishop himself, 
that’ he “had! pointedly expressed his disapprobation of the 
manner in which they were conducted. - From that time, F 
discontinued an interchange of official duties with Drs Moore, 
and assigned to him my reasons, 


48 


- Since’ this period,- Dr."Moore has ple 
that he has at his last meeting, used noth ing but: 
the Church, that it is his firm. Fray =| to v 

or the time to come, and that he has” notif 
boat determination. This, in my opinion, 
entirely... Whatever may be my, own. privat 
regard to the expediency of ;society meetings= 
there is no rule of. the Church violated thereby, | 
pendent Rector must be left to his own discretion, as to w! 
is expedient i in his own parish . And I certainly have no rig! 
to take into my hands the. authority of dictating. This, 
have it from the Bishop, is his opinion in the case: anc 
govern myself accordingly. It is my intention ‘theref 
interchange occasionally with Dr.. Moore, as: aio en 
my brethren, .as-long as he shall continue thus to" use 
but the service of the Church. 

This intention, will, I trust, be conned petit ‘om al 
personal. regards. .* Whatever’ private. misunderstanding maj 
be between yourself and Dr. Moore, it i is not for me te 
fere.. My wish is, as it is certainly my, duty, to act between 
Pes as friends—at least to-me ; ‘and it would’ bosom. happim 

I could make you such toone another.. = = 

_-And now permit. me,-Rev. Sit, to ‘expostulate * with yore" 

on this. case, and to-beg-of you to.consider, whether it would 
not be for the advantage of. the Church, that these unh 
differences. should be brought toa close. It must. certainly 
weaken the influence. of our. Ministry, to ‘have it known 
that’ these animosities exist among . the Clergy ; ; and it must 
also undoubtedly be .a great cause of rejoicing to those who ~ 
are the enemies, and who seek.'the. downfal of the ‘Church. © 
Surely, when so many.are combined against us, we ought» 
ourselves to be united. But-independently on- all pruc 
considerations, it will admit of little dispute, that we ar 
called to this . union hy 9 our duty, both as Christions and 
Clergymen. ©. eM 

It really appears: to me, that this reconeiliahon sees ~ 
be. brought. to: bear, without any . “unbecoming st subi - 
on either side. «It may now be done. without giving’ publicit 
to any of the previous measures; as whatis r it 
has been shown to no one, and mentioned to no‘o 
to one confidential friend;. and is not. intended to. be 
unless imperious circumstances’shall require. un mean, 
however, only as a mee to roy own cae ng ita.” 


49 

This letter you will be so good as to communicate to Mr. 
fs. to whom jointly with yourself, it is intended to be 
addressed. It is sent to you in the spirit of friendship, in 
order { to avoid any interruption of that harmony which ought 
to subsist. At the same time, I beg it may be distinctly 
understood, that I deprecate no consequences, but that of the 
¢ommitment of the Pree of the Church. ee 


Your Brother in Christ, 
CAVE JONES. 
Rev. Dr. Hobart. 
- New York, May 14th, 1810. 


After the sending of this letter, Dr. Hobart and I met seve= 
ral times in private circles; on which occasions he was parti- 
cularly courteous ; but I received no answer, nor any commu- 
nication on the subject on which we had conferred. [had learnt 
however that he intended to write a letter in answer; and that 
it would be of aconciliatory. nature, abandoning the ground 
which he had taken with regard to having no intercourse, and 
leaving me to act as my judgment or. inclination might direct. 
But on Friday the 15th of June,’ after prayers, Dr. Hobart 
asked me to remainin the Vestry Room of 7 Trinity Church, and 
there introduced the subject and dilated upon it verbally. He 
criticized every part of my letter, on which he had evidently 
prepared himself; without giving me the same opportunity 5 
and when I endeavoured to explain, he would twist my words, 
and endeavour to fasten upon me unsoundness of principle and 
inconsistency of conduct. This conversation led to the very 
consequences which I endeavoured to avoid, and which I avow- 
edit to be my object to avoid, in communicating by letter. 
tt was lengthy and embraced a vast variety of topics, so that 
it is almost impossible to remember the particulars: and it 
really would appear to me that every thing was resorted to, 
which might have.a tendency to wound my feelings and irritate 
my temper. So firm was the impression on my mind at the 
time, and such was the tartness and the irritating nature of 
his remarks, that I more than once was induced to ask him 
whether he was seeking the occasion of a quarrel? This to be 
sure he disavowed ; and while he was making the most severe 
remarks on every part of my character and conduct, he would 
say, “I mean not now to wound your feelings.”—He took a 
review of the whole period which has passed since my coming 
to the since (although v@ had arsed: at Mr, Harris’s, on the 


50 
affair of Mi. Gillet; to bury every thing in’ ‘oblivion prior ¢ 
that eveht) and contrasted his friendly deportment, ‘as he m 
tioned, towards mie, to what he charged me with, my unfriendly 
and insidious ‘deportment towards him. “He brought into view 
a variety’ of little trifling particulars with regard to the question 
of precedency; and others which had never been mentioned 
between us; and asserted that I had assumed an importance’ 
which did'not belong'to me, and had infringed upon 
This referred as he explained it, on my enquiry, to the quest; 
of precedence at the Communion and at funerals; which, 
I then reminded him, had always beén arranged b etween 
by agreement, or by courtesy. But he asserted that 
he had the politeness to yield to me, yet I ought to ha 
the good sense to have refused. He charged me with be 
if not the principal author, at leasta very instrumental cause 
‘of the Misundetstanding between him and Dr. Moore, and 
asserted that F had no pretensions to the offering of myself as 
a. mediator between them. He alleged that on a variety of 
‘eceasioris I had acted as his secret enemy. And, after taking 
@ review of the whole ground, as well as at several intervals, 
while Tendeavoured to explain and defend, he would. 


ly, say, “and yet after all this, you ‘hold yourself up/as - 


fectly immaculate, ‘a paragon of goodness, al ; 


to reconcile differences 1”—-He urged me for the’ “reasons for 
éertain parts of my condvet. If I gave them in general; he 
uiged’ me to specify particular facts. If I waved it, he threat- 
ened to, bind me to proof. ‘Fillat length I told him 
wished to avoid any further altercation ; and that I 

ebliged tobe on my guard ; because Tsaw thathe was dispeael 
to “eateh at my words, and twist them to my disadvantage. 
‘He talked several times of being able to fasten certain ‘charges 
on me by proof ; aid said that matters were drawing toa‘ 
when I would have'to answer for my conduct: Durit 
whole of this time, F dare appeal to himself that I acted entire 
ly on the defensive, and that I suffered none of those passion 
to akise, which ‘tight naturally be expected tobe: excited by 
théoccasion: while‘on the contrary, he throughout, and par- 
ticularly towards the conclusion, was warm, aire and ir- 
fitating, ai \ one 


_ June 16th, 1810. ' seals 


- Additional remarks, as make occurred in the ensuing seek. 


The subjects introduced were so various, aid introduced 


$0 rapidly, that it is impossible for me ~ remember the con- 


, 


51 


aexion, or indeed scarcely more than the general tenor of the 
remarks made. i had frequently to request Dr. Hobart to stop. 
and Jet me correct what he had asserted ; but this was soon. 
impossible: and.I perceived that I had only to hear what he. 
had to say; except when he called upon me for explanations. 

of my past conduct, which we had agreed by his own propo-_ 

sal to bury in oblivion, I therefore made up my mindteoppose. 
nothing; but merely, . when it was impossible to parry it, to. 

soften my own conduct, or give reasons for it. Indeed, upon. 

reflection, I am astonished, and almost angry with myself, 
that I could remain, and receiye such insulting language and- 
conduct. Once, towards the close, when every thing seemed, 
to have been said, that might reasonably have been expected, 

I didtake my hat, and open the door, with intention to leave, 

him; but Dr, Hobart pressed upon me closely, seemingly 
with intention to prevent me; and upbraided me with unman= 
liness. or want.of: generosity (and -asit now strikes me, of 
cowardice) for wishing, as. he said, to avoid giving an explas 
nation of my conduct.. At this time it was, that in a cana 
manner, and (if I donot greatly mistake) with a brandish o 

thearm, he said,, «I will pat you to the proof.” When at 
the same. time I ‘had asserted nothing, but a mere. matcer of 
opinion as.a reason for my own conduct, after being repeatedly 
pressed, having endeavoured to parry it; and when he was 
urging me for specific charges, evidently withintention to 
form aground of complaint. At a very early part of the 
conversation, I found that he was disposed to’ take advantage 
of every thing which I should say. I therefore endeavoured 
to be as. guarded as possible. For this. purpose I determined 
to make use of the mildest terms in my power, and those 
which would be.the least liable to objection. These he 
‘would still, play upon; and from. them. endeavour to involve 
ame in, absurdity. And. if in any subsequent part, I made 
use of different terms; hecharged me with prevaricating ; 


_and he would repeat over the terms, and add, « For I know not 
-how to understand you.” In fact, I had all along endeavoured 


to avoid an investigation of past circumstances; because. I 
knew that that, was not the fit opportunity for such — enquiry, 
and would only add fuel to the flame; and because it was 
very apparent that Dr. Hobart pressed it .only to draw from 
me something which he could turnto his own advantage. 
This was evident from the use which he made of . ane: 
‘conversation with regard to Mr. Feltus. 

When he charged .me_,with acting as his secret enemy in 
4raducing his writings ; I answered, that I might have expressed 


1. 


ia 


my opinion on them when it fell in my way, as every one had 
a be to do; but that T had never,. i ‘taken 
any pains to his disadvantage: “ Aye,” said he,’ «*that was 
all-you could venture todo = ‘ft woe have done for you 
togo further. You acted as my assassin. yr ng while 
E-was your eulogist and defender.” I answered, ‘th t Tehoped 
my conduct was suchas to speak for itself without’ stat 
in need of a defender. "When he made some other charge 
which I do not distinctly remember, I answered, that 
not recollect everything that I had ever said. «© W. pooner 
he, ‘what will you say, if} can bring proof? What will 
you say, if I can produce it in black and white? matter 
drawing to a crisis, when, perhaps, it may appear against you.” 
<* Well,” said I, “ whatever you can produce in’ black -and 
white, T trust I shall be able to prove.” He Rr 
that is a different thing.” 

He introduced the subject of the affair with respect to 
General _Hamilton, and the funeral of Mr. Walton, and 
endeavoured to make “it appear, that the acknowledgments 
which he made were without any actual’ reason, and 
from his disposition to friendship; and he charged me 
insincerity and duplicity for appearing to accept of these, a 
sf not regarding him with the same unreserved friendship’ that 

had bea To this I answered, that I acted according tomy 
matural constitution, » and as the ‘Teagon of the — ae 
according to my ideas. 

Referring to the Convention ss 1808, he said that mri 
to that period he regarded me ashis friend; and when it 
suggested to him that I was not to be depended on, he felt sor- 
tow, he was going to say, but in fact it was swallowed up by 
_indignation and contempt. He had before that period, he said, 
- xegarded me as an upright man, anda friend to the Church. 
Since that indeed, ‘he had held me in very different estimation. 

One of the objects which he had in view, seemed to be to 
get me to make concessions. As proofs of this, the follow- 
ing circumstances may be considered. Speaking of the offer 
‘on. my part to become a mediator between him and Dr. Moore, 
he alleged that I could have no pretensions to that office, in 
as muchas, according to his declaration, I had been the prin- 
cipal cause of the misunderstanding. I answered, that, 
without entering upon the: investigation of this point, I could 
see.no reason for thé inference. Supposing, I said, three pow- 
ers in the political world had been at wary and one of them, 
@ven the first promoter of the strife, should make peace ; 


53 


would it not be perfectly allowable for this one'to offer itself 
afterwards as a mediator between the othertwo? He ans 
swered, «« No: unless that one should acknowledge itself to have 
been the aggressor. But you,” continued he, ‘+ hold yourself 
up as perfectly innocent.” As afurther consideration: After 
he had repeated the last remark several times, in different parts 
of the conversation, to wit, that I held myself up as perfectly 
immaculate, altogether harmless ;” I answered : “Oh no, Dr. 
Hobart, 1 am very sensible of my weakness ; [have my full 
‘share of infirmities.” He rejoined, «« Why this is the first 
time you have made the acknowledgment : you have-not said 
as much as this before.” is 
With, reference to the threat held out in case of my inter~ 
‘changing with Dr. Moore he said, ‘That since I was determin- 
ed to take my own way, why they must give up the execution of 
their purpose: for though it would be perfectly just om their 
‘part, and such as my conduct deserves’; yet as it’ would be 
‘such a-disagreeable thing to carry it into execution, connected 
‘as we are in the most interesting offices, and as it would be 
“sdoing violence to his feelings; it must even be abandoned. 
‘Bat when he said it would be doing violence'to: his" feelings, 
~he wished it to be understood,” he remarked,’ « that in case they 
«should carry their purpose into effect, his consciénce’ would 
“not condemn him as acting improperly,’ but only that it would 
be contrary to the natural tenderness of his nature.” $ 
Among the causes of complaint against me, he mentioned 
‘ my having interested myself*in behalf of Clergymen to whom 
~he was opposed. And in’ taking notice of this, he mentioned 
it in the following manner : ‘ that I went about from. house to 
“house trying to make interest ; and sent lettersbackward and 
forward (meaning as appeared when I made enquiry. that I 
had written to Mr. Dehon on the subject) and that in the cage 
-of Mr. Dehon, I had done more injury than service; so that 
- Thad learnt that [had not quite so much influence asl expected.” 
The circumstances mentioned above which he wished me to 
explain, were the following : He said that I had professed on 
a former occasion, to have looked upon him as my friend‘on 
- our first settlement.together, and to have taken pleasixe in his 
“society; “what then” said he, ‘was the reason of your viewi¢e 
“me in a different light ?”’—After having endeavoured to wave 
‘the question, as calculated to produce no good effect, but 
rather to irritate, which I wished to avoid : yet being repeatédly 
urged, I at length said, “ that the reason was, because he had, 
in my opinion, assumed an authority which did not ‘belong-to 


54 


him.” This produced the threat meftidned before, :thut Jie 
would put me to the proof. « But,” Ladded, «s if you are dey 
sirous to know what was the reason of my discontinuing to 
view youas my friend; is. your present conduct calculated 
to erase that impression, and to restore our former friendship ?” 
« No,” said he with warmth, « don’t misunderstand me I 
am not seeking for your friendship.» I wantto have no fri 
ship with such:4 man. Intercourse I must have from our si- 
tuation ; but I. want nothing further.” « Well,” ‘I replied, 
«« while it shall please God to continue us together, we mig) 
at least, I should suppose, live in peace.” Tate 
As the extraordinary and impetuous nature of the conver- 
sation introduced such’ a huddle of ideas, that it is impossible 
to reduce them to any order; I am obliged to’ set: down what 
‘took place; as*it oceurs to my mind. The following ’particu-— 
Jars ought to have been noticed at an earlier stage. » In re+ 
marking» on my letter, Dr. Hobart observed, ‘that 1 had not 
taken notice of his objection to an interchange with Dr. Moore 
and Mr. Feltus, on the score of the part which those gentlemen 
had taken with regard to the business of Mr. Irelands which 
was his principal ground of complaint.. I ‘replied, «Phathad 
mot occurred to me; but it appeared to me that I had noright 
to exclide them on that score. The part they had taken, - 
had been contrary tomy advice, to be sure; but they declared, 
that they were actuated by principles of duty and a sense of 
justice ; and I had no right to call their motives and their vera- 
ity in question.” ‘ Aye,” said he, ‘¢ such declarations as 
‘theirs, are jast what would be used by the most errant dema- _ 
gogues.” ‘The same had been remarked, as I now well re- 
member, in the former conversation had concerning these 
“gentlemen, in Trinity Church; though the mention of it was — 
omitted in the netes made of that conversation. And what 
was then remarked, was also now repeated, that these géntle- 
men had been induced to the part they had taken, only bécause 
they had been Jed to believe, that some influential members 
of the laity were opposed to the measures taken with regard 
to Mr. Ireland; arid that therefore this presented a Saneesite 
opportunity for casting odium on him, Dr. Hobart, and in- 
¢ volving him in difficulty, sa Lol? a 
In referring to the concluding part of ‘my letter, in which I 
had said that « I deprecated no:consequences, except it/be the 
commitment of the peace of the Church,” Dr. Hobart obsetved, 
“that Dr. Moore -had it not'in his power, ‘that he was not of 
sufficient consequence, to break the peace of the Church.” 


This he brought in several times, in different parts of the con- 
yersation.. I clearly perceived his intention, and understood 
his meaning, that what was said of Dr. Moore should be ap- 
plied to me; but I let it pass without comment or regard. 
* When we were drawing to the close, after he had been as 
warm as he could well be, without actually quarrelling, which 
eertainly was prevented only by my forbearance; he subjoined 
jn a taunting sneering manner, and- with gestures the most cal+ 
culated to irritate: “ Now don’t go and represent, even to 
your confidential friend,* what 1 have said only in explanation 
of my conduct, as 2 studied insult to yeu.” 
On a review of the whole conversation, and all the attend- 
ing circumstances, I can with great truth and propriety say, 
“that I have never, in the course of my life, as faras my recol- - 
lection- extends, been handled in so rougha manner, by any 
one pretending to the character of .a gentleman, or in any 
other character; or been treated with so little regard to feeling 
- June 23d 1810. The above additional remarks were written 
at different times in the intervening period, as the circumstan= 
wes clearly occurred to my mind. . 


, 


. PREVIOUSLY tothe rough handling lastnoticed I hadonce 
exchanged with Dr. Moore, and this it was, probably, which 
gave rise tothe conversation and the circumstances attending. 
An occasion soon offered.for. making me acquainted with 
Mr. How’s indignation also, and the line .of conduct which 
he intended to pursue. On.the first of July the Communion 
was administered at St. John’s. It is always customary with 
us on such occasions, after the people are dismissed and while 
they are retiring, to exchange friendly salutations. I accor- 
dingly went up to Mr. How, accosted him in a friendly manner, 
and stood ready to offer him my hand. He did not, however, 
open his lips, nor make any return to my address; and I 
then passed on and accosted Dr. Beach: The i 

of what is now stated was firm and clearon my mind at the 
‘time; and unless my senses deceived me, I could not be 
«deceived. = determined however, not to yield to the impres- 
‘sion, orto act uponit,until further circumstances should confirm 


—_—— . 


7s ‘+ * Referring f soppose. to an expression in my letter. 


56 


what seemed, almost incredible. ination. therefore, 
was to see whether a similar line of ct should be eentinie 
ued; andto yieldto the persuasion, or cc 
mistaken, accordingly as. that should war 
conduct of mine might, lead to such behavic t tow 
kept out of the way of Mr. How. for upwards of, 
until I thought my. feelings were sufficiently unde 
not to lead me into. any conduct,. which nih renin 
what. had occurred. When 1 had thus. got the mastery of 
myself, I went into the Vestry Room of Trinity Church, where 
Mr. How was, witha determination to speak to ; im in 
friendly manner as,usual. This I did accordingly; 
meno other return than a-nod of the head, Reflecti 
conduct, I could no longer be in doubt of ‘his inte out 
I thought it was really too trifling and childish to be ake 
notice of. . Accordingly I,determined to. speak to him ‘uni~ 
formly whether he returned it or not... This I did co 
both at entering and leaving the room, and that even after he 
had refused to notice my,entering salutation. With this cold 
and marked veglect. Mr..How continued to treat.me for several 
weeks, indeed until my leaving the city.in the month.of Au- 
gust, on a tour with my family to the northern parts of ma 
state. On my return, I was quite surprized one 
meeting Mr. How in the Vestry Room of Trinity Church, and 
accosting him as usual, to find that he offered me his hand, and 
addressed me in a cordial manner. This I very readily reci= 
procated. - But it. was out of my power to account for it. The. 
cause perhaps may. be devised from what | have since ; 
that his conduct to me had begun to be talked of, and the re. 
port had: got to. Dr. Hobart’s eas aunts the Dr. had spoken 
to hin on the. aie: or + wageyhd 

; eS | i te raed if sal 


vfs: foe i 4 eye Py 

; “SAS EORIR - : y seth ti 
it “ be gPirreis bo 0p eo ae 
(ani * 

WE. now, arrive ata new period; which seems to have 
duced the acme of my insults; and to have. develope 
sequences which were to ensue upon my pertinacity. 2. é 

At the. meeting of the Convention,’ the business - site 
_Very peaceably till the close of the second day. Mr. How and 
_Mr. Lyell. had however, during the two days of the session, 
-been observed to be very buys in private conferences with the 
members both in and out of the doors of he Church. ‘The 


; Winx! 


57 


close ofthe business of the second day, just before the hour 
ofthe adjournment of the Convention, disclosed the purpose 
for which they had been engaged. At that period of the sit=° 
ting.of the Convention, the different Committees are appointed 
the votes for members of the Standing Committee, . 
of which [ had been a‘member for ten years from’ the tiiie 
first removal to the'city, it appeared that wre epen was 
left out, and thatvof ‘Mr.: Bowen was substituted » On this: 
being announced, the Rev Mr. Harris, who had been a mem= 
ber with me for several years, and who knows the manner im . 
which I have discharged the duties of that office, arose and 
begged leave to resign. Dr. Hobart immediately moved that" 
his resignation should not be accepted, unless he could offer’ 
sufficient reason. Mr. Harrisebserved, that it would be a 
matter of great grief to him to be obliged - to give his reasons, - 
and begged permission to resign without being put to such ne= 
i The motion however, was insisted on, and Mr. Harris 
was repeatedly called on for his reasons: the gentlemen of the- 
Laity ‘seemed’particularly “desirous of shearing them.- After’ 
being» thus refused permission without complying - with the’ 
ition of the: motion, Mr. Harris-arose and said, 
painful as it would be to him to:comply with the demand, yet- 
since “it was insisted’on, he’ must proceed to lay his reasons 
before: the house. He began, by saying « that the same rea~” 
sons which were to be advanced against: Mr.’ Jones,- would’ 
operate with equal force for the exclusion of himself from the 
Committee ; that Mr. Jones: had always discharged 
theduties of that office with fidelity ; and that no cause what- 
ever existed, why he should be left out of that appointment.” : 
He was going'on to deliver his reasons at length’; when Dr. 
Hobart rose while he was yet speaking, called him to order,’ 
and proceeded with much warmth in a speech of some length, 
evidently with a design to prevent Mr. Harris from proceeding. 
The principal. topic which; as far'as I recollect, he insisted 
on was, that the Convention had an undoubted right to appoint 
to the different Committees, whomsoever it should seem proper © 
to.that body so:te do, and that no one had a right to impeach 
the motives of the members; and he hoped that the gentleman, 
alluding to Mr. Harris, would not interrupt the peace and’ 
harmony of the Church... As soon as he closed, Mr. How, 
with equal warmth and with an insulting manner, said, “He 


—_ at the gentleman,” meaning Mr. Harris, that | 

gentleman ought to. be ashamed of: himself to impeach » 

_ themotives of his*brethren, and that he was guilty of offering. 
$ 

: © 


58s 


#-gv0ss insuit to the Convention.” When Mr..Harris was per=) ~ 
mitted, he again rose and said: « God knows, aad that gen=: 
tleman knows,” pointing to Dr. Hobart, _‘< that I have laboured» 
hard to preserve the peace of the Church.”. | He was going to. 
; but was-dissuaded by some of the elder Clergy who 
sat next to him, and who begged of him te locabiiu 
- Ibis capable of proof that aregular plan \ a) 
ing this; object, and that the aes complete electi i 
schemes were resorted to; notwithstanding the 
dignation at the impeachment of motives, and 
imsplt to the Convention. Individual members. ne: 
to, both of the Clergy and,baity. ‘The general pte 
use of,: was, that there-were in the Committee-too many 
Clergy of ‘Trinity Church; though the gentlemen concerned 
have since avowed that. the measure was out of enmity toume. 
S were written out, were even folded up, and were: 
put into. a hands of different agents, both of. ad 
Laity, distribution, And. many were thus igoayecmnt: 
pe willing to be ‘saved the Rouble of writing 
and, who.took it for granted that the election was going onas” 
in-years before, by taking the names of the memiiaratamesiee: 
Journals of the last Convention... » ted haPbcagat ? 
«In aid of these measures, and in. order: to pocpirechenidadie 
of the members of the Convention for this. business,: which. 
Was. intended ‘to, be:brought berore.them, other. cee rae = 
resorted to. ‘Two reports were set on foot, andi 
propagated, just before the meeting of, the Convention, ond’ 
with a zeal which would indicate thet. nothing less than my 
rein was aimed at.—QOf these, and of the circumstances. 
which. led to. them, I must give.an account. somewhat. 
more.lengthy than, their importance would otherwise de- 
mand; but. which seems: to be requisite, beer 
have been turned to, good account for the i 
When the matters of tact.are fairly stated, it- will also, Larust, 
appear that these reports were utterly without foundation. They. 
have however answered the intended end; and are now neal 
sunk into silence and oblivion. These reports were i 
on foot and propagated principally by Mr. Lyell; but the 
equally chargeable to Dr. Hobart and | Mr. How ; because th 
gentlemen have abetted them, and given shah ae 
ticularly the-last. It is also.to be considered, that.these three ~ 
Bendemes have acted in concert, in the whole pene 
= the Convention, and previously in relation’ to Dr. 
ve Mr. Feltus; and therefore, what is dene by one, must 
be consi ered as proceeding from the whole. 


59 


| ‘The first of* these reports, relates to the business of the 
Standing Committee, and ‘to my conduct,’ as a:member of 
that Committee, inrelation tothe application of Mr. Blackburn,’ 
a Methodist Preacher, for Orders in our Church. » According; 
to: thie manner in which this business was represented, it would 
be made to, appear, thaty ina charge thus committed to me 
by the Church, and in which the prosperity of the Church 
was very deeply concerned, I had acted, :not from a sense of 
duty, but from personal ‘considerations and party views. ob 
will do Mr. Lyell thé justice to acknowledge, that he didnot 
state this from himself, as being actually the case, but that’ 
Mr: Blackburn had told ‘him, he had’ been ‘informed so. It 
differs, however, little with me, as it affects my character, or 
as to the effect which it naturally will produce on the:public 
mind, whether Mr. Lyell is the author, or the propagator of 
the report. The same object iseffected; though in a legab 
point of view, to be sure, Mr. Lyefi is not answerable forthe 
consequences. ‘In order that this business nowy be a une 
—— I must state itatsomelength: © r hogy 
Some time inthe month of July last, I think, Mr. Lyell carne 
me ‘my house, andinformed me, thata Mr Blackburn, whoisa 
Methodist Preacher, intended to applyfor Orders inthe Church: 
He represented said Mr. Blackburn, as of that’class of Methods 
ists; who, notwithstanding the separation of the -body of that 
society; have always continued to commune with the Church’; 
that he wasa gentleman of an independent fortune, of an un 
blemished character, and was moreover possessed of the lites 
ary requisites for undergoing an examination’; and therefore 
aid. not ask forthe exercise of the dispensing power +—though to 
be sure, at his time of life, (for he is 55 or 56 years of age,) he 
might be alittle rusty in the languages: butthat he had not beea 
inthe country quite the term which the. Canons required. 
Mr. Lyell further stated, that the testimonials which Mn | 
Blackburn would present, but which he said were ample as 
fat as they went, were’ all from persons im the Methodist 
connexion.» There were, however, he said, two’ families 
inthecity, who were personally acquainted with Mr. Blackburn, 
atid who had-been acquainted with him in\England: + ‘These 
_ are the famihes of Mr. Sukely and Mr. Lang; to “whom 
Mr. Lyell referred'-me for satisfactory information. \ Mr. 
Dyell stated further, ‘that should Mr. Blackburn ‘succeed in 
eed Ofders, it was ‘his intention to: act as Assistant 
nister to him, Mr. Lyell, in Christ’s Church, ‘provided the 
Westry of said Church should makesuch appointimcttt; ard, 
Lfo dal? tothe Conh acy vod, ban ett 
$ 


60: 


dhe his eiperddithe most iprobabletmiodet:of securing sw 
assistaneey as Mr. Blackburn w ROI cee et oe 


nt, with no other compensation tham that of being’ — 
‘with a house. And Mr. Lyell» ‘gent that the’ 
. of Mr. Blackburn should be ’ as” 


possible; because, as Christ’s Church was going to’ be shut. 


take a tour up the country; but as the repairs» mi 
occupy so: long a time as he would wish to be abroad, 
Church might be supplied till his return by Mr. Blac , 
his admission to orders be secured. The answer 
Aimade to this statement, was, that when the case shot 

before the Committee, I would act as my duty might seem to 
require. abhi 1 tp 
be Knowing the facility with which written testimonials are 
to be obtained, and that these often testify only in 

~ much important informatioi is concealed; 1 thought it 

and what my duty required, that I should wait in ob 
upon the families to which I was referred for $a 
information. Mr. Sukely’s family were not in th eee 
Bbourhood. Itherefore called. only on Mr. Lang’s: . hae 
with Mr. Lang, senr. who belongs: to the saciety of | f thod 

and Mrs. Lang, the wife of the son, of the congregatic 
Christ’s Chureh. The old gentleman informed oncial 
had been acquainted with Mr. Blackburn foresome’ years 
before his leaving England ; and that they had been intimate 
ever since their arrival in this country... He mentioned. in 

a general way, that.Mr. Blackburn had always,:he rue 4 
‘sustained a correct moral and religious character. 

my asking him, whether Mr., Blackburn, was Saadaneall 
aman of learning; he hesitated with an evasive reply 5, but 
after some pause said, *The-best way for us to obtain informa- 
tion on that head, would be toinvite Mr. Blackburn to some OF 
our social circles, and in half.an hour’s conversation, we would 
discover that he was hkely to do us. very little honour inthat 
respect.”. He said moreover, that I might ‘satisfy . 1 

taking fe ‘opportunity. to hear him preach. On my e 

when aud where I might have such opportunity; he 
did not know, but would make enquiry for me; 
odist sociéty had refused Mr. Blackburn aa ro pre . 
ing in their meetings; since which, he: had been preaching a 
in the African. meeting-house. Mrs. Lang observed, that 

she had heard from some,. that the achossipaphtod Blackburn 
.was not-permitted to preach among the, Methodists,was be , 
he had shown a disposition to enter the Church. The 


, 
le 


6h 
* 


gentlemen said, “No; that was: not the reason... The reasow 
isy” said he, «« that Mr. Blackburn wishes'to preach just where 
it may suit him; whereas'the society insist that he shail con- 
form to’ the general rules, and preach where he is’ directed.” 
Mrs. Lang said, «Be the reason, however, what‘it might, 
_ she should regret the ciroumistance, should Mr: Blackburn 
be admitted into ithe Church. She was persuaded he would 
_ do us no credit.: She regarded Mr. Blackburn asa friend 
and acquaintance; and:from that ‘regard had: been induced 
to go and hear hint preach’ in'the Methodist meeting: ‘ But. 
such preaching she never wished to hear again. She should 
lament exceedingly to perceive it introduced into‘the Church. 
She hoped, .she said, +f Mr. Blackburn were admitted to Or- 
ders, that he would not be permitted to preach in any of 
the Churches in the city; but»would-be'sent only on missions 
to some of the out-borders.” “Iremarked in reply, «that if 
Mr. Blackburn were ordained, it would be~ with’the’ express 
expectation of his bemg Assistant Minister: to ‘Mr. Lyell in 
‘in Christ’s Church:—She - said, that she would lament such 
appointment exceedingly ; and-she knew it would be extremely 
disagreeable to'a great part of the congregation. | Besides his 
want of qudlifications as a Preacher, she said there were other 
objections to be made, which ought to have’ their ‘weight. 
He is penurious,” said she,  to.an extreme.” «“ Yes,” added 
the old gentleman, “I would not have his disposition for all 
the world: he seems to me, toset more value now on one acre, 
than he did-in England on ten.” Mrs.: Lang added, « that 
‘Mr. Blackburn is in the habitof carrying on trade; “which,” 
‘she said, would not answer for our Clergy. He not only 
‘bys and sells stock, but he'also buys and sells any thing else, 
‘by which he can make a penny :”—this was her expression. 
And» she’ said, “she had an ‘opportunity of knowing, for - 
Mr. Blackburn was in the constant habit of consulting her 
husband in the purchases and sales- which he made.” These 
things seemted to be drawn’ from them reluctantly, and out of 
‘a regard to truth, when the questions were put to them ; 
while at the same time, they professed a firm regard and. 
friendship for Mr. Blackburn. ©: OSE fat LE 
© The information which was thus obtained, it was certain! 
my duty to lay before tge Standing Committee, whenever 
“should be called’ together ;' and it was my determination so to 
‘do. But I waited for such opportunity’ -I mentioned it not 
_ ‘to: any individual member, except to Mr. Harris,-and that on 
_ Morning of the meeting of the Standing: Committee, when, as 
ee iy , 


62 


‘Pousnallpidtd, v7 called 'for shim. thats we) smighit 
pany. Some little time previously fo.shiss-and sade 
Standing Committee was :called, happening»in compar 
the Bishop, I. thought: it proper to: mention the « oe amstance: 
to him,. suggesting. at the same time; whether it id not be 
best to prevent the application to the Staindin; y in 
erder.to save the feelings of Mr. Blackburn; for J honestly 
stated to him, that I could not’ conscientiously, as the matter 
presented. stself to me, join m arecommendation 
burn for Orders. "The Bishop, thought it would 
sable to recommend: him under existing circumsts 
acquiesced in the propriety of the measure p: . 
no) further steps, however; but left it with the, Bishop to do 
what he might see, proper in the ease. rod 1a res 
_ The Standing. Committee. was however called. » Ama when 
‘we came together, I stated what had come to my knowledge, 
in.a plain wnvarnished manner, as’nearly in-the words of -the 
persons testifying, as my recollection would serve. ‘The gen- 
slemen were unanjmoosly, of opinion, that it would not) be 
proper to join'in a recommendation of Mr. Blackburn. » But 
in. order. to get over the business as delicately as/possible, they 
directed the-Chairman, Dr. Beach, to inform Mr. Blackburn 
that we had.postponed- the consideration of the ease, for fury 
ther information. .At.the same-time, some'of, ‘the Jay gentle- 
men were urgent, that Dr. Beach, in (communicating 
formation, should. doit in such a way, as to leave little room 
for hope of success, in case of further application. = 4s 
. Some few days after the meeting ‘of the Committee; atthe — 


Commencement of Columbia College, Mr. Lyeiland I metand / 


walked together in the procession, part of the way to Trinity 
Church; and Mr. Lyell took this position, after we had set 
out, for the express. putpose of having conversation . 
subject of Mr. Blackburn's application. He asked:me what were 
the teasons which operated with the Committee to refuse ® 
‘recommendation ? I informed him. in a general -way of what 
I had laid before the Committee, and that I had obtained t 
statement from Mr. and:Mrs. Lang, to whom he had re ¢ 

me for information. « Why,” said he,  ¥hav 

since mentioning them to. you, hada eonversation 1 

on the subject ; and, to be sure, they speak very ray Ba 
then,” he added, « you know a written testimonial 

sented. from them, which ought to have its weig ewith 
Committee.” .« Yes,” said I, s a written’ ‘estiatantia: owas 
Presented, which respected his moral shearer rans sate 


63) 


not contradicted by their'ptivate information. However,” 
added, <« the subject’ is yet open for discussion’; though to be 
sure, some of the members were urgent that’ Dr. Beach in‘ 
communicating their decisions, should leave little room for‘ 
hope of success in ease of further application.” »« Ah,’ re- 
plied-he, ** Mr. Blackburn has withdrawn his papers; and will 
make no further attempt at obtaining Orders in the Church.” 
_ From this last detlaration, I took it for granted that noth- 
ing further would be heard concerning this business. But iry 
the month of September, shortly -before the meeting of thé: 
Convention, on meeting Mr. Lyell inithe street, he stopped mie, 
and.aecosted me after the following manner: “ Well, what 
are we to do with the case of Mr. Blackburn?” I replied, 
« You know, I mentioned that it is still open for consideration 
if you see proper to bring it forward.” << But,” said he, “ it 
will not be worth while to make a second trial, unless it can 
be previously ascertained that there may bea greater prospect 
of success.” Ianswered, that itappeared to me, a regard 
to Mr: Blackburn’s feelings would require ‘some such pro- 
eedure. «And now,” said I,:« Mr. Lyell, Icannot answer 
for the other gentlemen ; but for myself, I must in candour in- 
form you, that I never can, according to my present impres~ 
sions, unite in a-reeommendation of Mr. Blackburn. How- 
ever, 1 wish not by this, to prevent you from applying to the 
ether members of the Committee.” | «* Why,” said he, « Mr. 
Blackburn has informed me, he learnt from’Mr.-Feltus, that 
you raised obstacles in the way of his admission to Orders, not 
from any objection that you have tohim, but from opposition 
to me.” Treplied, «If Mr. Feltus has made any’such decla- 
vation, it is entirely without authority.. 1 have not seer 
Mr. Feltus, sitice the business was brought before the Standing 


~€ommittee. I have never made to him such a declaration, of 


given him reason to dtaw sucha conclusion. But, whatever 
Mr. Feltus may say, EF give you assurance, that I have beert 
guided--by no such consideration; but have acted: from a 
sensé of duty, and a tegatd to the welfare of the Church.” 
’ After parting from Mr. Lyell, and reflecting on the subject, | 
Ithought it necessary to attend to this business, that I might 
know the truth of this report; that if Mr. Feltus had made 
such declaration, he’ might be asked for his authority, and: 
the error might be corrected. Accordingly I went immediately 
over to Brooklyn, to the house of Mr. Feltus, but finding him 
not at home, and hearing that he was in the city-; I called 
4 Dr.-Moore’s, hoping there to meet him. Being, however, 


“ THANK by) fe 
“ thinking as he ought. Mr. Blackburn me 
We ae in the presence of Dr. Pilmore, one 
ication, &5'c.—that he understood there existed some 
«, among the Clergy. On which I remarked, that it Sa 
« to be lamented, that such opposition should exist but as Lo) 
“© it qwas 50, that he would meet with difficulty rt ining ( 
“ particularly, as a full examination was proposed. 
“ were een and no names that I can recollect, were 
sc tioned — ; . 
“ Other thin were said on the same subject in the sc sam 
és contrasting : “Gil let cast, with Mr. Fh Hubbard a 
“ Willison ; but no ndmes of Clerical ment were 1 
“6 My sentiments are open, and without cover. 


ehh ¢ a In much haste, ws 
ie “esse heen Yours, ere . 


ty? Dr. R. €. peer. ie i 


owe Feltus met me at the time scuba at Dr Me 
and there stated to me, verbally, the same in ; 
is contained in the preceding note. He remarked ex 
that the observation concerning the division a 
was made, and introduced by. Mr. Blackburn ; a 
precise expression used by Mr. Blackburn was, that le under- 
stood “« The Clergy are at outs.” ; Mr. Feltus more aS 
declared, that, he had made no such assertion or iy 


contrary that my name was not mentioned i in 
his business. 

It ought to’ be distinctly noticed, and bitte in 
according to Mr. Feltus’ statement, the remark. 
to the » division among the Clergy, “originated, 2 
interview, with Mr. Blackburn; the. general 
Mr. Feltus, were in answer ‘to this; and these g 
when related to Mr. Lyell, were made ‘the foun 


65... 


circulated report. It is a question fairly open for consideration, 
Where Mr. Blackburn. ‘obtained his knowledge of this fact? 
By me and my friends, the matter was never mentioned, but 
ee a secrecy and confidence. _ : 
After my having the above interview with Mr. Feltus, 5 
again Gpahed on him, by appointment, at his house; and we 
went together to the house of Mr. Blackburn: as I wished, 
before taking any further steps, to have a statement made by 
Mr. Blackburn himself, of the conversation had with Mr. 
Itus and Dr. Pilmore.. Mr. Blackburn was not at homes 
but had gone to Albany, and was not expected home for 
several days. It appeared, therefore, not right to wait for 
his return. The next day I waited on Mr. Lyell; stated 
to him in a general way, what was said by Mr. Feltus; and 
renewed to him the declaration which I had made, when 
this business was first suggested by himself, as to what Mr. 
Blackburn had reported. Ithen proceeded thus: ‘¢ And now, | 
Mr. Lyell, I must request you to inform me candidly, . whether 
you have mentioned this declaration as from Mr. Feltus, to 
any persons besides myself ?” ‘* Yes,” said he, “ I have men- 
tioned it to the Bishop, and to other gentlemen.” “Then,” 
T replied, ‘as I have conscientiously made to you a declara- 
tion of the principles upon which I have acted, and that there 
is no foundation whatever for this report ; it is an act of jus- 
tice due from you to me, that you should go to the Bishop, 
and those other gentlemen, and invalidate what you have said.” 
He replied, with great carelessness and indifference, ‘Ohno, 
I shall neither invalidate nor substantiate. It 'is a matter 
between you and Mr. Blackburn, and you must go and settle it 
with him.” « Then,” said I, « as 1know not to what gen- 
tlemen you have mentioned it, I shall myself call on the 
Bishop and the members of the Standing Committee, and 
make to them a fair statement of the case. : : 
I called on the Bishop accordingly. And, failing to meet 
with the members individually, I embraced the first oppor 
tunity to lay it before the Committee in a body. This op- 
portunity presented on the day previous to the meeting of the 
Convention. The members were all present, except one of 
the Laity, who at a former meeting, was particularly desirous 
that no encouragement should be held out to Mr. Blackburn 
for further application. The gentlemen who spoke, expressed 
themselves perfectly satisfied with my conduct ; said that they 
thought I had acted exactly as my duty required; aud offered 
to.give a certificate of this their opinion, I.told them, that 
9 


66 ; : 


was not my object. I was only desirous to sat 
minds; -/- re, ee boisgehe Fl 
Inthe afternoon of that day, the C 
was held at the Bishop’s. At that x 
fing next to Mr. Lyell, had some co 
Rave since learnt, with respect to w! 
" eerning My. Blackburn. Mr. Harris be 
a seat next to him, and neat to Mr Lyell. 
Harris then said: to me, in the hearing of Mr. 
and Mr. Lyell had better now -settle between yo 
ness concerning Mr. Blackburn.” I answered, that 
to come'to any settlement which might be proper. M 
turning to Mr. Lyell, observed; “ At the meeting of the £ 
ing: Committee to-day, Mr. Jones mentioned this busimess?? 
Mr. Lyell, in a vociferous manner, and so as to be heard ally 
around the room, answered with wafmth, «He did . 
mention it; dnd it seems, there were persons’ present ¥ 
heard what he said!” « Oh!” said’ Mrs Hafris, « if you are 
going to be thus. warm, .Mr. Lyell, it is in vain to‘say any 
thing further on the subject. If you will-be calm, and have 
patience, I will tell you what was said.” Mr. Harris then in- 
advertently added :. «« Mr. Jones stated to the Committee, that 
you said,. he had acted, in the business of Mr. Blackburn, — 
out of opposition to you.” Mr. Lyell exclaimed with vehe- — 
mence and’ veciferation, so as to he heard by gentlemenon — 
the opposite side of the room.: * Then he stated what is fasle*” 
Mr. Harris, immediately correcting himself, said «No: Lk 4 
mistake.’ He didnot say so.” But Mr. Lyell, without-wait- 
ing, to hear‘the correction, and while Mr. Harris was speak- ca 
ing, exclaimed again: « ‘Then he stated what is false.” Mr 
Harris proceeding; and endeavouring as ‘soon as ‘possible td y 
be-heard,.saidy «« What Mr. Jones stated was, that:you 
mentioned, that Mr. Blackburn told you, that Mr. Feltus 
said, that he,Mr. Jones, had acted im the business out of op- 
position to you.” Mr. Lyell, not regarding what was said 
by Mr. Harris, repeated a third time, « Ifhe said so, he said 
what is false.” Other things were said; - particularly, Mr. 
Lyell «repeated, that he had only mentioned the report as 
coming irom Mr. Blackburn. Feeling indignant, I rose and 
erossed to the other side of the room: and as I rose, I said, 
“This is a good cunning way of endeavouring to rnin the 
reputation of another, without taking upon yourself the re- 
sponsibility.” «See; see there;” said Dr. Hobart, as havesince _ 
‘been informed, « You see now Harris, by what a spirit he is 


~ 


i 


67+! 


actuated.” Mr. Harris with great truth and justice rejoined: 
«¢ You, Dr. Hobart, of all men, ought tobe the last to make 
such a remark.”—For my own part, nothing I confess,.among, - 
all the multiplied insults and provocations which I, have re-. 
ceived from him, has led me to form so mean an opinion. 
of Dr. Hobart, as this single remark. Because, he knows,, 
-and. he has several times candidly confessed, that in this re~ 
spect, I have always had the advantage of him. And/I any 
bold to put it to his conscience fo. declare, that amid all the 
irritating cireumstances in.which I have been placed by him, 
Lhave never resented his almost unbearable conduct; and? 
have never returned him one irritating word. This. is said. 
with humility. Possessing, by nature, as I am well aware, a 
disposition quick and irritable, yet chastened I trust; and. in: 
some measure subdued by a habit of constant watchfulness, and. 
by the prevention of the grace of God: I have often been as« 
tonished, when reflecting on this subject, that under the pe-' 
culiar trying circumstances .in which.I have been placed; I 
have not been surprized into some unadvised act. [thank 
God for his preserving care. Pe : 
. Another report was set about, respecting what Mr. Lyell 
has been pleased to calla speculatingscheme. The expression, 
“«s-Was set about,” .is not used without reflection. . The report; 
received its origin from Mr. Lyell ; and Dr. Hobart and Mr. 
How aided him in giving it currency. Justice and the Chris- 
tian temper would have dictated, that before a matter of this, 
kind-were set in circulation, application should have been made 
‘to me for information ; that the parties might have been sure. 
-there was no mistake... And moreover, to this:line of conduct, 
Dr. Hobart had se 2mnly pledged himself, at the tinte when we 
entered into a fot:nal compact in the affairof Mr. Gillet., But. 
mo such step was taken. What. was going on, wasto me 
-utterly unknown; while it.was.che subject of general conver~. 
sation with others. .And though Mr. Lyell did afterwards. 
mention it to me; yet the mentioning was the effect of pas-" 
sion ; and not until some time after the matter had deen dress-. 
ed up in a hideous.form, and then put upon thewing It 
will however, I trust, when stripped of its trappings, appear 
‘to be utterly harmless. _In-order to a clear understanding of 
the affair, it will be necessary to enter: into some detail... _, . 
_ The first intimation. which I ‘received of this business, was 
from Mr. Lyell. At the time that] called on him concerning 
the affair of Mr. Blackburn, towards -the close, when I in- 
formed him, that if he would not do me justice, I should myself 


68 


repel such reports ; he got warm, and as I arose to leave him, 
he said: « Now, if you will sit down, I will tell you of ano- 
ther report which I have mentioned, and which J think is not 
_ much to your credit. And if you can clear it up satisfacto- 
rily, I will willingly counteract that.” ‘I sat down 
proceeded to state, that he understood I had got 
subscribe for me for shares in the Mechanics’ Bank. — 
him that he need not give himself trouble to counterta 
_ fprthat Thad got the shares subscribed for; and It t it 
was perfectly correct. « He thought otherwise,” he said. As 
he stated the matter somewhat erroneously ; I entered ‘into an 
explanation, more than I think he was entitled to, now that E 
am acquainted with the attendant circumstances. And I left 
him with saying, that this was not intended as a matter of 
traffic; but was money invested for the purpose of improve- 
ment and inerease. It might have been mentioned before, 
but it just now strikes me, that Mr. Lyell mentioned this, 
and in somewhat of “a tauriting manner, as a set off to 
what I-had said, (but that was only in my official capacity,) 
concerning Mr. Blackburn’s buying and selling. And Mr. 
stated, that Mr. Blackburn was much more conécientious in 
this business than myself; for that he would not possess any 
of the shares in this new Bank, until they had received thead- 
vance, which is usually consequent upon the closing of the 
- subscription: that is, he would not improve the advantage, 
which the opening of such institutions affords to private indivi- 
duals who may have a little money to spare, which they wish 
to invest. for growth; but would conscientiously throw this ad- 
vantage into the hands of stock-jobbers and speculators. 
’ After this conversation, meeting with Mr. Harris, I men- 
tioned "to him that I had understood such a report had got 


abroad, andthe manner in which it had been propagated. “*« E 
am very giad,” said he, «that you have opened this subject _ 
to me. I have for some time wanted to speak to ‘you on it, 
but have felt a delicacy; and was in hopes that something 


would occur to bring it befere us. Really,” he proceeded; * it 
has made a very great impression on my mind ; and in the 
form in which it has been presented, I have been unable to 
reconcile it with that character which I have always conceived 
to belong to you, and to that conduct which you have Pe se 
ebserved.” He then proceeded to remark, that this matter ha 

been much talked of during my absence, while on a visit up 
the country ; and that he had understood, from the manner 
ta which it-had been’ represented in @ conversation with Mr. 


a 


69 Me ig 


How, that [had been transgressing an express law of the' 
- State. In-conformity with this idea, he said, he remarked to 
Mr. How, “ Why this amounts to usury: I see no difference’ 
between this, and the conduct of Mr. Ireland.” Mr. How he 
said, replied, « Why no; I see very little difference.” After 
this representation, I made to Mr. Harris a plain statement of 
the real circumstances of the case. And after hearing-it, he 
said, “* Why this is avery different thing from what | had 
understood.” 
‘The real-matter of fact, is as follows. I had in my hands 
a sum of money, in trust, waiting for a suitable opportunity 
for being applied, soastobe rendered productive. For the 
effecting of this object, I had applied tosome of my friends, 
who. are more conversant with money matters than myself; and 
‘among others, had requested the present Cashier ot the Me- 
chanics’ Bank, Mz. Fish, who was my neighbour, and at that 
time was Cashier to the Manhattan Company, to dispose. of 
it for me, inthe most advisable way. Herecommended its 
being loaned on mortgage; and we were waiting for a 
- suitable opportunity to present. Just at this time it happened, 
thata Charter was granted by the Legislature for the Mechanics” 
Bank. ‘This appeared to me a very favourable opening for in- 
vesting the money in my hands. Yet, supposing that the busi- 
ness would be conducted in the method usually pursued on such 
occasions, when books are opened for subseription,and those who 
can bustle most, stand the best chance ; and wishing to avoid 
being in the crowd ; I went to one of the Directors, with 
- whom I am intimately acquainted, and requested him to secure 
for me sucha number of shares, as would about meet the mo- 
ney in hand. He promised me so to do, if the business of 
- subscription were conducted as usual ; and he should find it 
in his power to comply with my request. A short time after, 
an advertisement appeared in the newspapers, prescribmg the 
mode of subscription to be by letter, and limiting the num- 
ber for which each individual should subscribe, to not exceed- 
ing 50shares. I therefore determined to subscribe myself; 
as my presence in the croud was not required Yet, on 
conversing with some friends who are acquainted with bus:ness 
of this nature, they remarked that these subscriptions for 
‘50 shares, would yield in fact scarcely more than 5 or 6 a- 
‘piece ; and that it was not worth my while to subscribe alone. 
Others of my acquaintances, I found in the course of conver- 
‘sation, were getting their friends to subscribe for them; in 
erder to make out the number desired. Accordingly, Idid 


70 


the same, and by these means obtained, though not the number 


applied for to the Director, yet a greater number than I should 
otherwise have procured. On conversing with the Cashier, 
and others acquainted with the institution, [have found, that 
this thing was perfectly understood ; that it was counted on, 
that no enquiry was ever thought of, whether those who sub- 
scribed, subscribed for themselves or for others; latinfact - 
one single stockholder has, with the knowledge a 
by these means obtained nearly 800 shares. No law of the 
State existed concerning the premises. No law of Bank 
contemplated the case; and consequently none could be, 
contravened, And no one was .injured, .except it be specs 
ulators and stock-jobbers, by being prevented from receiving 
the, advance on the shares, which they themselves produce, 


But Dr.,Hobart and Mr. Lyell have said, that this wag » 


taking an advantage of the institution,—that the Directors had 
granted to the Clergy five and twenty, shares, ynder. the 
persuasion that they would not speculate. ,This is, howevery 
a sophism of,their own fabrication, For how was it to be 
known what number they would grant, before the declaration 
‘was made ? And how was this.to.prevent the getting of others 
to subscribe, which must - necessarily. be. done before such — 
declaration? The subscriptions ,were all delivered in, before 
any distribution of the shares.was made. . Besides; it is false 
infact. ‘Tosome individual subscribers, whoare not of the 
order of the Clergy, .full one hundred. shares have been 
allotted their on individual subscriptions ; as the Cashier of the 


Bank has expressly declared to me. And an. individual. ~ 


of my acquaintance, who is a Merchant, and.who at the same 
time got others to subscribe for him, had the same precise 
number of five and twenty shares allotted for. his portion, 
So that this is only a construction of their own forming, which 
these gentlemen have been pleased to put upon the case. 
In order to perceive, the purpose to which these reports have - 
been made subservient, and which they haye actually been ins” 
strumental to effect ; it willbe necessary to notice a conversas 
tion had with some. of the members of. the Convention, in the - 
. evening of the day on which the Committees were chosen. - But 
first, it will be proper to mention the circumstances which led 
to this conversation ; and which will throw additional light 
upon, or rather. will envelope in.tenfold. darkness, the.whole 
proceeding. iP sii ee 
Just before the opening of the Convention, on the last day 
of the meeting, the Rev. Mr, Bowen came to me, and inVir 


— 
> 


af 


ded tne to take a family dinner with him; which I readily con- 
serited todo. It happened, entirely without my knowledge, that 
my wife made a morning call on Mrs. Bowen 5. and her stay 


- was $0 much insisted on, that ‘she also teok dinner with us. 


As soon as the ballots were called for, and Mr. Bowen had de- 
livered in his ticket, he left the Church. Mrs. Jones has since 
informed me, that on his coming to the house, he seemed to 
be-much agitated, though she did not then know the cause 5 
and on my return home in the evening she engiired of me 
what could be the occasion of so much distress to Mr. Bowen ? 
my answer was, that I knew not, unless it were what ‘took 
place with régatd to the turning of me out of the Standing 
€ommittee. « Well,” said she, «« Mr. Bowen, I am sure, had 
ao hand in-that; for he was as much distressed as I ever saw’ 
any man.” She then proceeded to inform me, that during Mr. 
Boweh’s stay in the house, he walked the floor continually, fre- 
quently looking out’and exclaiming, «he wondered what they 
ould be about so long in'the Church; they were about no good, 
he was sure; nothing but wrangling, and jangling, and elec 
tioneering!” On Mrs. Bowen’s asking what could be the mat- 
ter ? the said,’ oh! ‘scandafous doings; shameful proceedings! 
Yam sick of -such works. I left Charleston partly with the 
view of getting’ rid of this’ kind of business, and in the 
hope of living in. some retirement and comfort; but here 
i find matters ate conducted in the same contentious way. [ 
abomiinate the whole proceeding. It is a shameful electioneer- 
ing-piece of busimess.. ‘This party-work is not the way to build 
wp the Church!” He afterwards returned to the Church; and 
on the adjournment of the Convention, he waited for me, and 
we walked to his house‘ together. The Rev. Mr. Hart also 
took dinner-with us. =~ 
~@I:had made -up-my mind not to say’any thing concerning 
the ‘business‘of the Standing Committee. But after the ladies 
had retired, Mr. Bowen himself introduced the subject. 
He repeated to me’ several’ of the expressions which’ he 
had used to Mrs. Jones: And he proceeded to say, that he 
disapproved of the whole proceeding; it wasa shameful elec- 
tioneering business. © «« There is no reason whatever,” he con- 
tinued, “ why you should be left out of that appointment ; and 
when there is not some urgent reason, it is always improper that 
an old member should be removed from stich bodies. I con- 
‘sider myself,” said he; “« Mr. Jones, as holding’a place whith 


‘you ought to fill; and I shall always conceive myself bound 
‘to-follow, jn that situation, that line of conduct, which I shail 


be» conscious you would pursue.” He then informed mes 


18% 


that he and his delegates had voted for sails “Mr: David :: 
B. Ogden,” he said, ‘ after having been solicited. by. Mr. 
How to vote against me, had sreinds to him, as the | 
know what had best be. done; and he had returned 
« This was a matter of. private concern, betwee 
other gentlemen; and that they, the representation fro: 
Church, had nothing to do with it.” » Something led 
mention of the reports which were in circulation; 2 nd I be; 
to give some explanation; but checking myself, and fee 
indisposition to proceed, I said, « However, I daa ot wish 
speak of what concerns myself.” Nay,” said Mr. Hart, 
“it is proper that you should.. We who live at a distancey 
know nothing ef what is going on jn the city ;. and. therefore. 
can be guided only by what we hear.. Many of us, Ihaveno — 
doubt, ‘have been led to’vote in this business, from what we — 
have Bs told concerning you.” I accordingly, gave an ex- » 
planation of the affair of Mr. Blackburn, and of ‘the purchase 
of Bank Stock, asnearly as I can remember, according te 
what is stated shove, Mr. Bowen then said, with regard to 
the affair of Mr. Blackburn, I had acted so as entirely 
_ his approbation, and according to his opinion, just as my 
duty required. And he had heard, he said, Mr. How express 
the same sentiment. - « With regard to the. Bank busi 
he continued, “ if. no law be contravened, and the Directors 
of the institution do not call the matter into question 3 noone — 
else has.a right to say any thing about the business.”—-Yet, : 
these declarations and exclamations notwithstanding, . Mr, 
Bowen’ $ mame was substituted for mine, with his knowl 
and consent! And the reason which he assigns for it is, that. 
having without effect. objected to the measure as prea fac 
and inexpedient, he thought it his duty silently to acquiesce !! . 
‘While we ‘were conversing, | the. Rev. Mr. Cooper | a 
Yonkers, joined our company; and was present when theex= 
planation was given of the particulars above mentioned. In 
the evening he left Mr. Bowen’s at the same time~ with me. x 
And as we walked together, he said, “He was, poo «| 
glad that he had had an opportunity to hear the matters whi 
had been reported properly represented ; for they- were very 
different things as they had been told'to him.” - his 
_ An additional matter, of minor importance, Mr. Lyell 
has endeavoured to get believed. And this was set.about. 
just at the same time. He said, in  the- same cautious 
manner as before, that he has reason to suppose that while 
I was up the country, I was instrumental in  causiag one, who 


- 


, 73 


had been a subscriber to the Churchman’s Magazine, to withs 
draw his subscription. -If Mr. Lyell will have the generosity 
to come forward and openly declare the fact; L,will prove it 
utterly destitute of truth. In the mean time, nothing further 
will be necessary for me to observe, that the purpose of my 
visit was no such pitiful business; whatever might be the ob- 
ject which he had in view. 

But Mr. Lyell has been careful to forget to mention, what 
came within his knowledge, and what he might have related. 
en sure foundation, that at the same town of Waterford, 

. where he would ‘insinuate the other to have happened, I did 
actually make provision for the consolidation of the Church. 
The Episcopalians of that town, who before had considered. 
themselves incompetent to the object of erecting a building for 
themselves, and who were dependent on their neighbours for 
their Meeting-houses, i in order to enjoy the privileges, of public 
worship in their own prescribed mode, were aroused under my. 
Ministry, during a short stay among them ; were incited to the 
undertaking of the building of a ‘Church ; were called toge- 
ther for the effecting of this object in ‘the absence of the 
young Clergyman who temporarily officiates. among them, and. 
in the course of two days, before my departure, subscribed: 
nearly $1000 for the purpose.. These things Mr., Lyell has. . 
been studious to conceal. .And they .would not now have 
been mentioned by.me, had they not been almost inseparably 
connected with what he has been pleased to relate. What 
was done, I consider only as my, bounden duty; and by no 
means acause for boasting or,self commendation. — _- 

These several reports have, I confess, yielded me much, 
satisfaction. While, on the one hand, they prove indeed, 
what is far from ‘satisfactory, that some persons, and some 
even of my brethren in the sacred Ministry, have been on the, 
watch, have marked my steps, to find occasion of complaint ; 
yet on the other, they afford the solid ground for pleasing re-,_ 
flection, that eagle eyed, anxious scrutiny—may I not too tru-~ 
ly say malevolence ?—has been able to descry no blot in my 
character, but what has its origin in misrepresentation. . 

Amid these various ostensible reasons, the real cause of. 
displeasure has been kept out of view. -Omna reference to the, 
different conversations had with Dr. Hobart and Mr. How; 
it will appear that all the warnings given, and the whole 
threatening of consequences, turned upon my compliance or 
non-compliance with the directions given not to exchange with. 
Dr. Moore and Mr. Feltus. . These consequences I was at the 

10 


~ 


74 


time unable to divine ; and it gave occasion to very considerable 
speculation. For some length of time, ‘Thad been led to ex- 
pect from either of these gentlemen but a small pens of 

favours ; except, indeed, to answer their com , 
of ‘accommodation, which 1 always rea! 
particularly careful not to ask the like in return. 
my continuance in the station which I he! ' 


depended upon their favour and influence,” it-was dif 

conceive, what Thad tolose. But the “business < ‘Con- 
vention dissipated all these doubts and difficulties. “The 
dreadful threatened consequences ‘were to be, the of 


me out of the Committees; in the discharge of the ditties of 
which, I challenge them to produce a single instance of dére- 
Iietion or unfaithfulness.. And the plea of there being in those” 
Committees too great a proportion of the Clergy of rity 
Church, was to be the powerful engine for e 
énd !—By the way, had this reason been founded in truth} 
would. PENS little delicacy have dictated, that I should 
‘been consulted on the measures before they were ¢ 
éffect ? and that we’ should have agreed among ot 

who should be the one to retire? But—Oh'! I bhish pared 
honor of the sacred character—these gentlemen knew that this 
was not founded in truth; they have beef obliged to acknow- 
ledge that this was only the oStensible reason* anid they Have 
been compelled, for their justification, to recur to m 

of really trifling ‘moment—to the old ‘circumstances bis an 
Mr. Prentice, which belong to a considerably prior peri 

and which, by the express and urgent proposition of Dr. Ho¥ 
bart hirnself, we had er aes 2 a witness, pledged’ ere 
selves to bury i in oblivion. 

Another consequence to ensue, should I dare to follow the 
dictates of my own judgment, was, as has since come t 
that ‘I should be ‘compelled to resign my living in’ T 
Charch. For some time previous to the last Convent 
hints to this effect wére thrown out. But since that p 
it has been intimated in pretty plain language, that if E di 
persist in exchanging with Dr. Moore and Mr: 7 
would be taken to compel me to leave the city; of, 
could not be effected, Dr. Hobart and Mr. How would them- 
selves retire. . The former part of the alternative’ has ne = ore 


* ne of the gentlemen w ho voted against me, has, in a late conversation, 
been surprised into an acknowledgment, that the reason of the opposition 6) 
me, Was my -exchangneg with Dr, Moore. 


Br. r) 


a 75 red» 


effected. But the whole system of measures. pursued, seems, 
to indicate that it is kept steadily, in view. 

In the whole of this business, there appears to be a very, 
considerable degree of contradiction. With regard to Dr 
Moore in particular, while. Dr, Hobart, on being. urged: on,. 
the subject of reconciliation and good understanding, -has.. 
expressly declared that) he will never be on any other terms... 
with him than those, on. which:he is at present; yet, as will, 
appear by. a reference to the conversation of the 16th of J une, 
he has urged it as a particular eguse of complaint against. 
me, that I have been the principal instrument in causing that; 
disunion. ‘This charge, however, arises from the natural , 
jealousy of Dr Hobart’s mind, and from his habit.of estab- 
lishing his. own. deductions as real matters of fact. He knows, 
that from his own unguarded, unreserved, and I will be bold. 
to. say, undeserved expressions, concerning Dr. Moore, not 
only to me, but before others also, I had it in my power to, 
make them irreconcilable enemies:, and he_ has taken, it for., 
granted, that, all these communications were made, But I am. 
ready, whenever circumstances shall require, to bring De. 
Moore in evidence, that the misunderstanding has arisen fron. 
other caMses,, and not from representations. from me ;_ that, 
I haye in. fact always. endeavoured. to.seothe his mind muiden, i, 
the goadings of Dx. Hobart’s opposition ;. that I continually... 
held out the prospect, that matters. would in time, by alittle, 
forbearance and management, be brought to an amicable set-. 
tlement; and, in. order.to leave the door open-to so desirable. 
an end, that I have studiously concealed from him the several. 
irritating maiters detailed in the foregoing relations, and kept. 
him utterly in the dark.in these respects,—until a short time- 
before the: meeting of Convention, when. all possibility. of.a- 
reconciliation. was rendered hopeless, and Dr. Hobart had.’ 
made. the matter. a. subject of communication. to others, at; 
least to Mr. Bowen. se things I am able to establish'on) 
indubitabie testimony. . 

Respecting the circumstances attending the case of Dr. 
Moore, it.is.necessary further to remark, that the conduct of, 
the gentlemen who now.oppose. him, has been of a character. 
directly. contradictory, as. referring to the period before, and 

Since his residence in the city. During his Ministry on Statens, 
“ Island, Dr. Hobart, except in one. instance, which. it will 
be. necessary now to notice, professed and. evidenced a friendly. 
disposition towards him; Whenever he came to.the city, he 
‘was, invited by. Dr: Hobart to. make. one.at his table ;. and 


76— 


in every respect to make his home with him. And whenever 
it was found convenient, Dr. Hobart was in the habit of ex-~ 
changing with him, and inviting him to officiate in his pul- 
pit. Mr. Lyell also was on terms of the strictest intimacy. — 
He has professed to: look on Dr. Moore as a father; and 
. ‘was in the constant habit of making use of his fatherly assist- ry 
ance. Dr. Moore has frequently left: his own parish, or got 
it otherwise supplied, in order to come to the city, and do 
the duty of Mr. Lyell.- And whenever disturbance or uneasi- 
ness took place in the’congregation of Christ’s Church, Dr. 
Moore’ was uniformly made acquainted with it, amd always 
exerted himself to heal the irritation, and restore hatmony. 
Yet, whatever irregularity has been justly or professedly — 
charged to him since his residence in the city, was, during — 
all the above period, practised in’ a ten-fold degree. 
- At that time however, it formed no bar to an interchange of 
official duties. But on his receiving a call from St. Stephen’s, ~ 
every engine was set to work, to induce him not to accept. 
And on his acceptance; he was immediately denounced: as un- 
worthy of admission to our pulpits. Shortly after his taking 
charge of that congregation, and before any thing was heardof — 
his meeting with the societies, at least before I-had heard-of ’ 
his meeting ; a personin strict confidence with Mr. Lyell, de- 
clared to a gentleman of my acquaintance, that the Clergy had— 
determined not to admit Dr..Moore into the other pulpits in ~ 
the city. -And on the removal of his family, those who before © 
were on terms of the strictest intimacy, did not pay either to 
him or to them the-common civilities of society. In their 
religious connexion also, they behaved to him even with rude- 
ness. When Dr. Moore was to be instituted in his living—_ 
notwithstanding that those gentlemen, including Mr. How, 
had never paid-him even the compliment of a'call, he yet sent ~ 
to them an invitation, such as’ became+a gentleman anda 
Christian, requesting their attendance at his Church on occa- 
sion of that solemnity. Yet, except the Bishop, who gave at~' 
tendance, and’ has always behaved to him ‘with friendliness 
and courtesy, all the above named Clergy of the city refused 
his invitation ; and refused with marked unkindness. = 
Concerning Mr. Feltus, it will not be necessary that muc: 
should be said in this- place. A connected ‘narrative of the 
proceedings against him, with convincing documents to es- 
tablish the facts there related, will be found under his own 
hand, in the‘ appendix. “That Avill be my apology for the 
course which I have pursued in relation to him. Yam bound 


17 


however, injustice to myself, to remark, that for along time 
I did entertam great jealousies and distrust of Mr. Feltus. 
And these jealousies, and this distrust, had been led to en- 
tertain of him, by means of the representations of Dr: Hobart. 
Mr. Feltus had so often, and so positively ‘been stated to be a 
disorderly man, and a man of intrigue and underhanded deal- 
ing; that I was really led to believe him such, and to stand 
aloof like the rest. It happened however, fortunately for 
me, that, at the time that the paper of charges, or implied 
charges, against Mr. Feltus was drawn up and presented to the 
Bishop, I was out of the city. Otherwise I should in all pro 
bability have been drawn into the measure of signing that pa- 
per, as others of my Brethren were against their own judg- 
ment, by the positive manner in which assurances were given, 
that Dr. Hobart pledged himself to establish what was there 
asserted. ‘The matters there stated, however, never have been 
attempted to be established; although frequent requests have 
been made to that effect. When»these things came to my 
knowledge ; and when [learnt moreover, from respectable and 
undoubted authority, that the gentlemen of Christ’s Church, 
- with whom it was said'that Mr. Feltus had’ been carrying on 
a negociation, positively declared that Mr. Feltus was entirely 
mnocent of that charge, and that they were ready at any time 
to make affidavit to that effect ;—-when I was informed of these 
things, I became convinced that I was in error, and that [had 
acted improperly on that error. And the more that I became 
acquainted with his story, the more was I ‘convinced that 
Mr. Feltus had been treated with injustice and cruelty.. As 
an honest man therefore, I felt myself bound to alter my de- 
portment towards him. This I did very gradually. For, 
notwithstandsng all the noise and threats that have been made, 
about my giving him countenance; he has preached for me 
but twice, and once I have exchanged with him, during his 
residence at Brooklyn. From the above particulars, ‘and more 
especially from the relation of facts in the appendix; under 
Mr. Feltus’ own hand; it will appear, 1 trust, that I have 
not been guilty, as Dr. Hobart charged me; of uttering “« A 
base calumny.” : PUTO OE 


\_ THE matters already presented, are sufficient to exhibit the 
character of the course of proceedings. ‘There is’still behind, 
however, 2 combinationof facts, «which, although not relating 


78 


particularly to myself, yet on that very a afford. the: 
stronger corroborating proofs, that what hag ha ppened to me is. 
not of a private nature. They prove that these are only seve- 
ral parts of the same system ;, and that all who come in the 
way of that system, shall feel the rod, and be made to bow. 
They will prove moreover, that those who are opposed to this 
plan of proceedings, are able to, plead something more, and 
something more worthy, than sinister and personal considera- 
tions, ; ; an fe 
The facts referred to, relate to the late measure of calli 
a special Convention, and to the intended measure of making 
choice of a Bishop. I wish most earnestly that it were in m 
power to avoid-bringing into view our present worthy _ 
much beloved Diocesan. On this subject I have studiously 
avoided, in my private visits, the making of the least mention. 
to him. I. have thought it indelicate ; and my friends have — 
thought it indelicate. But othershave not. And tothem in 
eonsequence, must be attributed whatever may. have a:disagr 
able tendency. It shall be my-endeavour to guard against 
every thing of this nature ; and, indeed, against making any re~ 


ference tohim, except where it shall be unavoidable in. a.plain® 


and honest relation of facts. 

In order to. present these in the. most perspicuous manner, 
it will be necessary to deviate a little from the chlecana 
order, and: bring together different topics eet to the same 
persons, though interrupting the regular course of events. _ 

Scarcely had Divine Providence seen proper to visit. Bishop 
Moore with theafflictive dispensation which has ocourred; when 
means were taken to provide for the appointment of a succes- 
sor. When this topic was mentioned only by common rumour, 
the whole of the elder officiating Clergy in the city, toa man 
expressed their disapprobation of the measure. But they were 
not consulted on the subject: They obtained their know- 
ledge of the intended act only by general report. They thong] 
that it was indelicate; they thought that it’was indecent;and that 
we ought to wait till it should appear what Providence ha: 
store. They think so still. Notwithstanding all that has been said 
about the danger of losing the succession—there is certainly 
no necessity for the measure, at the present time at least. 
There is evidently in the steps which have been taken, a pre- 
cipitancy, which is not suited to the importance and to the se- 
siousness of the subject, And without plunging into this has- 
ty measure in this State, the danger contemplated ill be ef- 


fectually guarded against, by the measures taken in other parts 


19 


of thecontinent, where a teal necessity for the election of 2 
Bishop “exists. One Bishop is udoubtedly to be consecrated 
for the Eastern States beyond Connecticut; and it is by no 
means certain that another will not be consecrated for South 
Carolina. But even should there at length be a necessity for a 
choice in this State, there is no necessity for hurrying it, in or- 
der to be in time for the next General Convention. The con- 
secration can be obtainedat any time in the interval of the meet- 
ing of Convention, by procuring the necessary recommendation 
from two thirds of the Standing Committees in the different 
States. — . . aan’ 

- But these trifling difficulties are of immense, magnitude, 
when a particular purpose is to be answered. ‘They have been 
urgently represented as such. And from what quarter 
these representations have taken their rise, will perhaps appear 
in the course of the following delineation. 

The fir$t object to be effected, was to get out of the way. 
those who might seem to ‘have the first claim. This was 
effected before a word was said about calling a Convention. 
Let it be remembered, that f am not now offering conjectures. 
Tam Stating facts. And I stand pledged to exhibit proofs of 
these facts, as strong as the nature of the case will admit, and 
such as will abundantly satisfy every impartial and reflecting 
mind. To exhibit these proofs in detail at present, would’ 
extend the present statement beyond wished for limits; and 
would tend only to render the subject tedious and perplexing. 

The first person who naturally and immediately presented 
himself for the appointment, to the mind of every dispassionate 
member of the Church, was Dr. Beach. It was his right, 
from his yeats—from his standing in the Church—front his re- 
spectability of character. Had matters been left to take their 
natural course, not a dissenting voice would have been heard. 
We should have come to the Convention with minds unbiass= 
ed; and should have made the election, as delicacy and pro-= 
priety would dictate, and as was done on the last similar oc- 
casion; without placing the gentleman in the degrading situa~ 
tion of holding up himself, or of suffering others to hold him 
up, as acandidate. But means were soon taken to set him 
aside. ‘The subject was brought into-view in such a manner 
as to get himto decline. Jt was natural-for him to say—any 
man of delicacy would say, he did not wish the appointment.’ 
Dr. Beach moreover said, and no doubt said with truth, that 
at his time of life he wished for ease and quiet; and there- 
fore could he be an independent-Rector, or even in his pre- 


80, : 
sent situation as the Rector 's Tepresentative in Trinity ea 
he would be willing that any other Rector should be = apP 
to the Episcopate. Would not, any other Per 
feelings, and in the same. situation, have said preci 
same ? But was it not an indelicate’ thing to f ! 
situation? 1638 
What was said, however, was all that was' re ui 
mediately the refort was spread, and spread with prez 
ty : « Dr. Beach declines being considered as hel 
Episcopate. Dr. Beach will not accept of an a . 
the Episcopate.” ‘When Another step was taken, whic hw 
be noticed in succession, matters were in a proper train; 
steps were taken to have the Convention called, and to h 
Dr. Hobart presented to view.—I am obliged thus slightly 
to notice this event, in order to connect the circumstances 
Jating to Dr. Beach; but shall. recut to them more “folly in 
their proper place.— These measures were taken, while Dr. 
Beach was ont of town; and, as I have his authoriry for as+. 
serting, _without. his concutrence or approbation. On his re-" 
turn to the city, and. on his discovering the course that affairs 
were taking, he perceived that undue use had been made of 
what he had said. He perceived that what he had said con- ” 
ditionally, was construed, and used absolutely. And’ he Was - 
up that the departure from that eee involve. 


is, and would we assistant minister under ngs as ook oras 
the Rector’ stepresentative. And he perceived moreover, that 
in such case there would be a clashing of authority : the Rec- 
tor. would direct the assistant; and the assistant, as Bishop,, 
would direct the Rector. Accordingly Dr. Beach took an op. 
portunity of speaking to Dr. Hobart on the subject, and) of 
stating it in the light as noticed above. ‘The answer of the lat 
ter gentleman, with considerable warmth, and in a’‘domineer- 
ing and angry manner, was: “ Ah, J want to hear — 
more on that subject. I will have nothing more to say ont 
subject.” Stat 
Dr. Beach then sent for me,. and had a long ani interesting 
conversation on the state of the Church. His object was to. = 
vise some methods by which: harmony and peace might be re- 


— 


si | 
stored. I anbosomed to him freely my view of things; and 


stated to him candidly and > apate my readiness to sacrifice 
my own private feelings, and fo bury in oblivion every thing 
of a personal nature, provided the affairs of the Church could 
be put on a proper footing. ‘T then represented to him, that 
the only mode which seemed to promise the attainment of that 
proper footing, ht been taken away by his having declared, 
_ as I was led to believe, that he would not accept of an appoint- 
ment to the Episcopate. His answer was, that there wasa 
condition annexed; and that such condition had not been ad- 
hered to. He then stated to me the particulars as related 
above. And he went on to observe, that unwilling as he 
would be to undertake the labours of the Episcopal office, 
provided -sonie other suitable person could be united in, and 
other circumstances were favourable; yet, rather than be placed 
in the awkward and disagreeable situation, in which he should be 
plain Fi the plan proposed, he would consent to accept him- 
self, provided it were offered to him by the Church, in an hon- 
ourable way. I then. informed him that there was no doubt 
the elder Clergy in the city would give him their support ; and 
there would, I trusted, be little difficulty in restoring matters 


to a properstate. 

When these particulars were understood abroad, means 
were immediately taken to endeavour to prevent the effects 
which would naturally ensue. Every engine was set to work 
to get Dr. Beach again to change his ground, and positively 
to declare that he would not accept of the appointment. 
Acquaintance after acquaintance, numbers of persons in suc~ 
cession, called on Dr. Beach, and there is reason to believe, 
were sent, in order to prevail on him not to suffer his name to 
to be made use of, and indeed, positively to decline being con- 
sidered as a person to whom the offer of the office should be 
made. Letters were written from different Clergymen with 
whom Dr. Hobart and Mr. How had influence, and whom it 
is known Mr. How had been to visit a short time before ; the 
the purport of which letters was to reconcile Dr. Beach to the 
opposition which would be made to him; and to convince him 
of the propriety of appointing a younger man.—In addition to 
all this, Mr. How waited on Dr. Beach, and in the course of 
conversation, told him, that he is too old for the appointment, 
and that if he should suffer his name to be made use of, al- 
though some of the Clergy might vote for him, it would yet 
be out of pity and not out of respect.—To bring matters toge- 
ther, which were probably divided in point of time: Dr. Beach 
‘ 1! 


$2 


fusther- received froin these re 
tory manner, that if he did not positively 
the appointment, they would use all | 
him, and-oppose hiselection to the very last ste 
. There is another piece of conduct which o 
in connexion with this, and which had a ver 
effect on Dr. Beach's mind. Dr. Hobart ha 
informed of the part which I-should act. A 
counteract it, he was engaged in procuring | es con 
cerning his conduct towards me. Among others, he applied. 
to Dr. Beach, to certify that he had never heard Dr. Hoba 
speak otherwise than respectfully of me. Dr. Beach obs 
that he could certainly testify that : but then-on theo 
he should be in-duty bound to testify, that he had neve 
me speak otherwise than respectfully of Dr. Hobart. 
was also, he satd, acquainted with a circumstanee,. by 
I had unequivocally evidenced my friendship for Dr. 
while, on my being nominated to-a particular official du 
Hobart evidenced his displeasure--at» the. appointment. 
these -reasons Dr. Beach said, he thought it best that I 
should .give no certificate, as it could answer no beneficial. 
purpose whatever. Dr. Hobart flew into a passion, « 
«If you will not dome justice, I will do justice to myself ; 
and I will publish to the-world what you have said about Mr, 
Jones ;. and I will publish moreover, that you will say one. 
thing to-day, and, another thing to-morrow; and I will prove it,. 
sir ; Iwill prove it.” . Taken altogether, Dr. Beach has said, 
from the manner, as well as from the matter, he never. ‘- 
been so insulted-in his life. 

Some days after the above’ treenbinetiean ji and. gal ai 
had mentioned the circumstances to different persons, and. 
rnentioned them: as related above ;, Dr. Hobart called on him,. 
with-intention to- explain away what had taken place. He 
wished also.a certificate testifying, that Dr. pry see 
understood him, and that-no insult..was intended. This Dr. 
Beach: refused ; because he had asserted and thought he con- 
trary.» Dr. Hobart aiiotiided: the,.caieeminene into different 
parale in order to induce a compliance. Dr, Beach p vositivel 
refused giving any certificate; but said that he was willing to. 
bury the,thing. in oblivion. Pe Hobart however, said, unless 
. a certificate were given, each one must be left to make his. 
own statement. On this ground they parted. In a few days, 
he returned, and voluntarily offered to meet ay Beach on 
the ground proposed. 


83 
‘These several very disagreeable circumstaneés taken tage- 


ther, operated very unfavourably on Dr. Beach; produced 


great disquietude of mind; and led him to say that he could 
not consent to cope with noise and contention, but must beg 
to be left in the shades of retirement. It is a question, how- 
ever, which deserves very ‘serious attention, whether the 
elder Clergy in the State, ought to suffer such unjustifiable 
means to crown the endeavours of aspiring young men; and- 
whether the modest wishes of an injured individual, ought 

to prevent them from:paying him a merited and rightful mark 
of respect? | 

After the way was apparently cleared in this respect, snolltels 
obstacle was to be removed. There was still aaother gentle- 
man, to whom, from his years, and from his respectability of 
character and of talents, the eyes of the Church might be 
directed, with a view, to a tender of the office. Some means 
must be devised to get him out of the way. And a curious 


plan, truly, was fallen upon for the purpose. The office of 


another assistant Bishop was-devised for the neighbouring 
Diocese of Connecticut: and that too, without the concur- 
fence, and even without the slightest knowledge of the very 
venerable Bishop of that Church. Means were taken to have 
a correspondence opened from individual Clergymen of Con- 
necticut, with the gentleman above referred to—without even 
the sanction of the Standing Committee. And there is 
sufficient reason to believe, though in the present state of 
affairs, I-will not positively hazard the assertion, that this 
correspondence was planned, and had its origi in New-York. 
The object of that correspondence was to consult that gentle- 
man, on the question of his accepting of the office, provided 
the offer should be made; and to get him pledged to that 
effect. And I only regret, that he should be so tar imposed 
upon, as to be drawn into that unjustifiable step. He would 
not surely have consented, had he not been persuaded that the 
measure took its origin from higher authority, than that of 
uncommissioned individuals. It is, however, a certain fact, 
that the Bishop of the Church in Connecticut, knew nothing 
of what was transacting, until/he was applied to, after the 
correspondence, to know whether he would agree to have 
‘such Assistant. Of the correspondence, he had, not the 
slightest intimation, until some time-since the last mentioned 
application. When it came to his knowledge, the effect was 
natural to fill the mind of the Bishop with uneasiness/and dis- 


84° 


trust; 


and a very considerable degree. 
is produced among ail the Glewey. 


neta Bint ale piers 
s view this business in its. earings. oe 
Fn who were engaged in Sauk 
plan, are those who profess a very superior ¢ 
tion for the Episcopal. charaeter ; and: co nside: 
an authority ‘which others perhaps may not be 
imansledigny at least not in the same degree. 
was found in conducting a measure ef the k 
to the Church, without the concurrence of the. ‘ 
out his knowledge, without giving him the least inti 
And that measure teo, was for an appointment to.anof 
which the Bishop was particularly concerned 3, and. wh 
consequences would naturally lead to his total retirem 
his official connexion with the Church. The great body 
Clergy in Connecticut were unacquainted with these, p 
ings or, ag least gave them no,sanetion. The great body 
Clergy, especially the elder Clergy, have: since anpreae® th 
disapprobation - of them: Jealousies, distrust, divisions, 
thus excited, - The same is the case in this State. : 
in order to answer particular purposes and views, the peaceof 
the Church is hazarded, and indeed in great mnease destopedy 
in two whole Dioceses of leading importance,  . © © « 
By these means however, the way was cleared of all existe 
ing obstacles : and it-now became expedient to call a special 
Convention. Rumour first was set-on the wing, to represent 
the expediency of such a measure. And then means were taken, 
without regard. to delicacy, to have the matter so brought inte 
view, as to get the Convention called. Reports were thenimme- 
diately, and. indeed, before that period, put into circulation, and 
spread. with incessant-industry, that Dr Hobart, was.unir 
versally looked to, and was, the most suitable:person for. the 
appointment. And letters we have reason. to believe 
written: to the country parishes, (one we know was writ. 
ten) stating that Dr, Hobart was unanimously nominated by 
the Clergy in. the city. While the truth, is, eee the elder 
part of the settled Clergy, and the full half of: those, -of | 
description, who are entitled to sti were not; even Ci 
on the subject. 46 ih pete » 
In the conclusion. of these interesting particulars; let 
gain beg indulgence to have it remembered, that Lam 
dealing in conjectures, Proofs are ready to be studs a 
proofs which will produce conviction, 9 


35 


‘FHE membets of -the.Chureh are now in-possdsion. of the 
faets which are necessary to erlable thenyto-formeat correct judge 
mentof the state of matters mow at issue, odttde not. greats 
ly mistake, they will perceive that something: more,is. toc bd 
offered om my part, andonthe part of those with whom £- 
act, im justification of the course which we have pursued, aad 
intend co pursue, than, what. has: been alleged, wine of 
‘envy of the rising fameof Dr. Hobart. .  ~ ii 9 

>} Jf Tam not greatly mistaken: in my. view of things they 


will further perceive :——= gOTES GEO 
te That, for a considerable time past, : a ‘regular system has been 


pursued with a direct view to the present, or a similar momen- 
_» tuous period ;.all the parts of which system, have had for 
their object the paving of the way for the elevation of the prin- 
cipal actors : 

That a part of this system has been, to depress all who 
were not found subservient to these leading views ; and asa 
consequence, that all the Clergy who have for some time 
re been settled, in this city and neighbourhood, unless under 

the patronage of Dr. <avemee 2 have been decried and treated 
with cruelty. 

And in order to guard against a recurrence and a continu- 
ance of these measures :—that it is our indispensable duty to 
endeavour to select a gentleman of more experience, of a 
more equable temper;less attached to party, and who possesses 
a more tender regard for the character of his Brethren,—that 
we should select such a character, to fill the responsible office 
which is contemplated to be supplied. 

Ilament most seriously the necessity which is laid upon me 
to unfold these disagreeable truths. 1 am fully aware of the 
danger which I incur, by the part which Iam now acting. 
Dr. Hobart has threatened in pretty intelligible language, even 
before this firm stand which I have made, that means would be 
taken to compel me to relinquish my living, and to leave the 
city. Mr. Howhas said to a friend in the Ministry, « If it 
were not that you adhere to Mr, Jones, that man would be 
able to raise no opposition, and “would sink into: neglect |” 
This is the language of Christian Ministersof religion! -This 
is their language towards a Ministering brother! And for 
what? Because Mr Jones will not be subservient to the views 
of one or two individuals: because he will not, in subserviency 
to these views, treat with unmerited cruelty all who are marked 
out as persons not fit to be trusted : because he thinks him. 


86 


self erttitled to exereise his own discretion. Well—be it so. 1 
am prepared for the worst. While a sense of duty to the 
Church, and the vindication of my own character and conduct 
impel me, I am _ not to be appalled with difficulties. Feeling 
a consciousness of rectitude, and trusting to t gracious 
Providence which has conducted me thus far in life, and thus 
far, I am thankful, with reputation ; I hesitate not to look dan- 
gerin the face. If I must fall; let the truth first be told. 
LET ME FALL WITHOUT DISHONOUR,’ MAKING AT LEAST 
ONE EFFORT IN MX OWN DEFENCE. , 


CAVE JONES. 


APPENDIX. 


APPEN DEX. 


3 ~<DOWOBOCO~ 
t 


Al Brief Statement of the persecutions and mal-treatment experts 
enced by the Rev. Henry F. Feltus, from the Rev. Dr. Hobart 
and others, for apwards of three years last past:—under bis 
own hand. 


IN this statement the remarks shall be extremely brief, and as 
plain as possible ; only serving to connect the documents that 
are embodied. Nothing can be more painful to me, than that 
the following facts should be made public; and for the sincerity 
of this profession, I think I can confidently appeal to ‘more than 
three years silent sufferings; during which time my lips have 
been closed forthe sake of peace, under the vilest and most 
slanderous imputations. Nothing could have supported me 
through this deep pressure, but the cheering beams of an approv- 
ing conscience ; the sweet rest of innocence ; and the firm persua- 
sion that a just and righteous God, would in his own good time, 
close this dispensation of chastisement, by commanding truth to 
become triumphant. ~ ; 

From the following documents it will appear— 

Ist. That Dr. Hobart’s persecutions commenced from the tinie 
of my refusing, as a member of the Standing Committee of New- 
Jersey. to receive his, Dr: Hobart’s, recommendations in favor of 
a candidate for holy orders, as a substitute for the personal attend- 
ance and examination of that candidate. 

2, That from this period Dr. Hobart appears to have set himself 
to injure my reputation in New-York, by giving rise to reports of 
irregularity against me; and whef he saw that it was likely I 
should be settled in the Diocese, (having received a call to the 
church at Brooklyn) by drawing up a sheet of false accusations, 
by pledging himself by word and letter to the Clergy of thecity,to _ 
prove the truth of those charges, in order to obtain their signatures 
for my impeachment; which charges he has never attempted to 
prove. 

3. That after my removal to Brooklyn, bringing with me the 
most ample testimonials from the vestry of Trinity Church,Swedes- 
borough, and also from Bishop White of Philadelphia; ‘Dr. 
Hobart had the hardihood to assert, to different persons, that 


°F had forged those Testimonials—that he sent this report into the 


congregation of Brooklyn, to the no small disturbance of many 
12 : 


90 


pious minds with their new Minister, and that to confront this crne? 
accusation, one of the gentlemen to w hé made the asser- 
tion, nad to write to Swedesborough and obtain fresh testimony. 
on the subject. 

4. That notwithstanding all this, when conciliation was pro- 
posed, and 1 waited on Dr. Hobart for the express purpose, by 
the advice of several pious gentlemen of Trinity Chu 
Dr. Hobart, refused to be reconciled ; but has, with the as 
af ais compeer, Rev. Mr. How, comtintiied ever si eh 
vours, as occasion offered. to torture, and lessen; and m 
my reputation: construing, as I firmly believe, my_ adv 
peace, into a persuasion that i am afraid of him, and tha 
tinued opposition, I would be driven from the Diocese. 

With the first of these points, there are some circumstat 
that are closeiy connected with those that come after, and 
therefore require some very brief explanation. ns 

About the time of. the Rey. Mr. (now Dr.) Pilmore’s givi 
the.charge of Christ’s Church, I was written to, then at Sw 
borough, by some of the Vestry of Cirist’s Church, to visit Nex 
York, with a view to succeed Mr. Pilmore in the Rectory of 
Congregation. I accordingly spent one Sunday i i the city, eee: 
formed Divine Service in the Church, and visited some of those 


established Society-Meetings attached to the Co Dgregation, as 


their Pastor was in the habit of doing for years bane rap, 
blame or censure. 


Some time after, on a visit. to New-York, I received every 


attention from the Bishop ahd Clergy, as usual ; particularly from. 
the Rev.'Mr. Lyell, who was now in charge of the Congregati 

of Christ’s Church. He most cordially psessed me to his pulpit, 

and. to his house ; and warmily invited me to attend'such Society. 

Meetings as might be convenient to me while in town, then, or, 

at any future period. 


On June the 4th, 1805, I received from the Rev. Mr. Lyell, ' 


the fellowing letter -——— 


‘Wari’ June Ath, 1805... 
Rev. Sir, k 
The Vestry of Chriat?s ( ‘aurch, (in this city,). hei 
concluded to catl an Assistant Minister as soon as prossitle, have. 


authorized me to inform you of their intention, and request a visit. 


Jrom you, as soon as you can make it convenient. 

I need not inform you, that you have friends in the CongFegation. b 
of Christ’s Church, who will rejoice to see, and hear you, and (if you 
jrermit them ) gladly support your election; of this you can have no 
doubt. Do come—and come soon ; and when you come, give the. 
pleasure of making my house (No. 69, Gold-Street, ) your ‘ais, 
while you stay in the city. 

Lam, dear Sir, 
Yours, Sc. 
THOMAS L YELL. : 


4 


“A 


-pose they think no letters nor certificates are sufficient. 


54 


* Vo this letter, I returned a negative the ‘week following: ;"in 


~which Lrequested Mr. Lyell to present my sincere thanks to those 


gentlemen, who thought me worthy their attention; and observed 
to him in the close, in these words:—** Were it the intention of 
your Vestry, to call a joint Rector, it would be another matter ; 
but I could not feel myself at liberty to ge of the station of an 
Assistant.” ' 

. Let it be remembered, that this was in J une, 180% 

_ on April, the year following, namely, 1806, i’ was called ‘- 
attead ameeting of the Standing Committee of the State of New- 
Jersey,:(of which I was a member,) to:be held at Burlington, for 

«e purpose of examining and recommending the Rev: Mr. Rudd; 
et Elizabethtown, for Priest’s Orders. 


aFn sd 


* 


PRESENT, 
Rev. Dr. Wharton, William Cox, Esq. and 
Rev. Mr. Croes, Joshua M. Wallace, Esq. 


Rev, Mr. Feltus, 


When the board was formed at the Parsonage Hause, a letter 


‘was presented from the candidate, pleading indisposition, for non- 


Se alg and a second. letter from the Rev. Dr. Hobart of 
few-York, in high terms of Mr. Rudd. These letters, with a 
written sermon from Mr. Rudd, were advanced as a substitute for 
his personal attendance, and examination. 

Mr. Wallace and | objected, that we had never seen the gen- 
tleman, who was candidate; that in his letter befure the Board, 
he acknowledged himself incompetent to an examination; and 
moreover, that the fourth Canon of the State expressly Heiearidudl 
his attendance, in these words: “‘ The Standing Committee, until 
a Bishop: be appointed, s/al/ examine every candidate for Holy 
Orders, in the qualifications required bo the “General Conven- 
tion,” &c. 

Two of the gentlemen, however, were in favour of giving hint 
the requisite recommendation to the Bishop; and the President 
gave them the casting vote. They accordingly recommended 
him : against which the following was entered on the minutes of 
the Board. 


“ DISSENTIENT. 
- Because it appears to the Dissentients that the 4th Canon of 


‘the State makes a personal attendance of the Candidate before the 


Standing Committee necessary, that the Committee may judge 
for themselves of certain qualifications in the Candidate, supposed 
by them to be required by the said Canon; and for which pur- 
_ (Signed) H. J. FELTUS, 
JOSH. M. WALLACE, 


92 


‘That’ Df. “Hobart’s letter was not” received ‘as’ afl-sufficient, k 
soon after heard and discovered gave serious offence to the Rev» 
author; and from that period I have dated ‘his i incessant and in-— 
creasing persecutions. = 

The year following, 1807, from the meeting of f the Coventon 
at Elizabeth-Town, I visited New-York, and found ‘that as I had © 
heard before, attempts were made to injure my th 
_city, by insintations of irregularity in a former 
ya attending some Society-Meetings,to which, as I 
¥F had been warmly invited by the Rev. Mr. Lyell.’ 

I called on the Bishop: te explain to“him circums 
Hobart was there; und I could be at no loss to dete! 
‘what quarter those reports. of irregularity had been 
from the i imperious tone in which he, Dr. Hobart, undert 
censure, in the presence of the Bishop, my attendance on tl 
Meetings. The same evening I saw the Rey. Mr. Lyell, 
mentioned to him what had happened: he assured me in 
most affectionate manner, that he was thankful for any se 


‘which I had performed among his people, and the next day cia = s 
me the following note. are 
re June 2, 1807, a 4 
Dear Brother, sie } ' 
7 4 I forgot to mention to you last evening that should Mr. Warner é 


‘attend any of the “Society-Meetings of my Congregation, it 
ferfectly agreeable to me, You have my entire approbation, J 
‘to be exfilicit on this subject; because. from looking over your note f 
Sunday morning, I am afraid you think me unfriendly to those meet 
‘eng, and that your attention to them in a former instance had ‘given — 
me is toga which, as Iinformed you on Friday last, was not the 
The difficulties alluded to were not felt, or complained of by 
hg They related, as I have been informed, to a Canon of the 
Church, which, to confess the truth, I knew not was in existence. % 
. My reasons jer not attending those meetings are, as I mentioned to te 
you, ill health, and want of strength. I wish you, would do me the, ; 
kindness of mentioning these things, as you may fad. ohhartunity. ° a 
# have. attended them, since your last visit to this ctty ; and shall, rs 
hofie, attend themagain. May God make them meetings of 4 
comfort to my fieofile. 
Do give us the Bes aera of your company to dine a 
20 ica 4.4 
ty ‘ Yours, &c. : 
THO : LYELL, | 


‘Tequest yOu, or should you, without being requesteds feel oF 


ne rr 


This first pomt of minor cabecigalatee serves as a clue to sit 
second, viz. the false accusations drawn up against me. .: 

2d. While in New-York I had promised to. —— for the : 
Bishop on Sunday forenoon and afternoon, and for.Mr. Lyell, at 
~Christ’s: Church, jn’ the evening: but by particular request of 


93 


Bishop, my forenoon service was occupied in Brooklyn—the 
other appointments were filled up as I had promised. ‘ 
- I had no idea of visiting Brooklyn with a view to settle there 5 
the invitation { considered as merely complimentary, and as such 
I consented to preach there once only. Lhe result however was, 
that on the Tuesday following, as I was returning home, I received 
a call from that congregation. (here follows an extract.) 

- 4 Rev. and Dear Sir, , > 
- %“ Several: gentlemen of the Vestry of St. Ann’s Church, 
% Brooklyn, having had the happiness of hearing your discourses in 
“ the City of New-York, and ikewise been favoured with your agree- 
4 able company; and the fierformance of divine service once 7 thiz 
place, they beg leave to express their afprobation—and we entrede 
your acceptance of a call to the Rectorship'of this Church,” &c. 


_. On my departure from the city it was quickly circulated, that 
Feltus had actually received acall tothe Church at Brooklyn. 
This was an alarming circumstance to Dr. Hobart. He bad long 
éxerted his influence to supply the vacant Churches to answer his 
own purpose. Mr. Chapman* was the gentleman he intended for 
this situation. He, Mr-Chapman had been introduced but a few days 
before to this Congregation,with a letter from Dr. Hobart,speaking 
of him tothe gentlemen of Brooklyn in the highest terms pos- 
sible. His plan, however, did not in this instance succeed ; and 
some desperate measures were new resorted to, to prevent if 
possible, the calithat Zhad received to this Church being of any 
service. 

I left New-York as I supposed, and firmly believed, in entire 
friendship with my Brethern in general,particularly with Mr.Lyell; 
but to my utmost astonishment,I was not many days at home when 
I received the following note from one of the members of Trinity 
Church, ' 


a fil Sime New-York, June 16th, 1807. 
Dear and Rev.. Sir, 

It may frerhafis excite some litle surprise, at your 
receiving this, from one, whom, frrobably, you will hardly recolee?. 
The object of it, however, is, that having conversed with a gentleman 
in this city, respecting you ; in the course of the conversation, he 
observed, that he had been informed, that you had been heard to 
declare, “ that should you be, or was you able to raise a congregation 
in this city, that you would throw off all control of the Bishop, 
and should disregard his authority ;—or words to that effect” I 
took the liberty to express my disbelief of the fact ; and also, that I 
conceived it to be a thing which you ought in justice to be informed of ; 
and that I should write you a line upton the subject, not doubting but 

'* #Let it not be supposed, that any disrespect is here intended toMr.Chapman. 
“When I satas a member of the Standing Committee that examined him, I 


‘thought he bid fair to be a useful Clergyman: and have never had anyreason 
toalter my opinion of the gentleman. 


: 


o& be 


gou will'do me the frvour to send me a Sow lines, either to expla 

eny observations made by you, which might be wrested or miscon= 

strued ; or afford me the satisfaction to authorize me to deny it ix 
positede. terms, ‘I shall anxiously wait for it: in theinterim, — + 
et Lam, very respectfully, ‘ 

Sir, your most obedient servant, 
cc pesianni HH, VAN WAGENEN. 

And here it may be proper to chneitie: that. nicola ex- 

3sted for,some time in the congregation of Christ's Church, in con- 

sequence (as I have been informed) of the ill health.of the Rector 

uot permitting him to fill up the Sunday evening and Wednesday 

evening services, as was said he had agreed todo. I have also been 


informed, that some gentlemen, volunteering their services, waited — 


on Mr. Lyell, and proposed to him to make way for a joint Rector, 
so that all the services might be filled up. Who those gentlemen 
were, I have never known nor heard. © In the course of this con- 
versation, (as | am informed) one of them happened to mention 
my tame: -upon which Mr. Lyell asked, whether they “had a 
promise, or assurance from me, that I would accept of the station ? 
to which it was answered, they had not. Upon this, Mr. Lyell 
informed them that they had better write to me, and know my 
mind on the subject, before any alteration should be made-—And 
indeed,well might they say, that they had no promise nor commu 
nication with me on the subject, as those gentlemen have since de- 
-clared to different persons, .and are now ready to make 9ath if re- 
quired, that the interview with Mr. Lyell was at their own discre- 


tion, and the. mentjoning of my amey.the mere effect of their own > 


partiality. “ah 


This slender-circumstance, icin! was deemed sufficient (eo. 


‘answer the press of the moment. Feltus was amobject of "Jealousy, 
and Feltus must be prevented coming into the Diocese, ii possiti¢e. 
’ For this purpose, Dr. Hobart drew up a sheet of false accusations 
against me, and employed.e young gentleman, a Mr. pec 
candidate for the Ministry, as his humble servant, to carr 


instrument to the different Clergy, with his, Dr. Hobart’s, circular - ' 
to each, -in which he pledged himself to prove the truth of those — 


charges, and requested the support of their signatures,in order to: 
my impeachment; ,to obtain which signatures, this young pee 
man used his best persuasions with those who hesitated.. 

The victory was now supposed to be complete. The sacral 


professions of candor, and sincerity, and love of order, <a 


for essentials, were strung _round:the unfortunate victim int 

for sacrifice. ‘Che instrument was signed and delivered to’ the 
shop. The Vestry of Brooklyn were made acquainted with my 
impeachment, and the sheet of charges with the signatures was 
shown to the Wardens of the Church! Nay more, the Rev. Mr. 
‘Wilmer of Maryland was written to by one of the gentlemen in 

. Hobart’s interest, inviting him to come on, witha view to set 

at Brooklyn ; and that he might count on the supportof the Clergy 


‘ 


ae 


Ms, 


95 


of the city. This ciecumstance was declared to me-by Mr: Wik 
mer himself—(and this let it be remembered, was after Thad re- 
ceived a calito the Church at Brooklyn.) : i 

All this was done while I was toiling with the afflictions of a sick 
family, more than a hundred miles distant, totally ignorant of 
what was going on against me. + 

When [received the letter last inserted from Mr. Garrit H. Van- 
wagenen, as.I knew not what to make of it, I presented it to Bishop 
White of Philadelpiia. I was not acquainted with the person, 
hor even with the name of that gentleman, who served as the in- 
strument of Divine Providence.te prevent the ruin of: saoigee and 
family, in the destruction of my reputation. 
. 1 was soon, however, informed of the respectable adi pious 
character of the writer: and Bishop White having perfect know- 
edge of my deportment, for near nine years before—he assured 
me, that I might make myself easy onthe subject ; for he would 
prevent such reports from injuring me, by writing himself, imme- 
diately, to Bishop Moore, on the subject. This he accordingly 
did ; and his letter was accompanied by another from” me: an 
extract more which here follows.: 
(__I am exceedingly concerned to be informed, that reports 
inimical to my refutation, have received some attention from resfiect= 
able individuals, in your city ; namely, that 1 should have said, or 
signified in some fornt; that “should I be able to raise a Congres 
gation in New-York, I should disregard the control of the Bishofr, 
and would threw off his authority j—or something to that fur- 
pose.” Now, sir, I-most solemnly declure to you, on the honour 
and firobity of a Christtan—ihat no such idea has ever escaped from 


my Lipsy in an y. form, in any filace, at any time ; nor any thing that 


gould have led, in any shapfie, to sucha report: nor has sucha esiincaied 
ever “sete ree my mind in my life,” &e. 

5 men drew a rough copy of. the same letter, ais sent it to: Mr: 
Van Wagenen ; and at the same time wrote to the Vestry at Broek- 
lyn, that it was. not in my power to:give them an answer to their 
call, and stated the reasons why; namely; me neues ts raised er Tewir 
me. 

After a period, harscrers of about two none I informed the 
Brooklyn Vestry,. that they were at. perfect liberty ‘to: call any 
other Clergyman they thought proper ; but if it was still their 
united . wish to. press the call they had already presented, (and 
which under present circumstances they would do well to consider;) 
¥ would endeavour to render them the. best services in my ‘power. 
To this I received this decided answer in. the words ‘following : 

Having given you a call’ to be the Rector and Minister of 
the Church of St. Ann’s, in this place, we have fixed our attention 
on you ;—and heartily accept of your proffered services. —The 
good Bishop will be happy to hear of your coming into his Diocese : a. 
he has seen your letter and eas of it.” &c, 


. 6a 


- Nothing could -have induced me to accept the invitation to 
Brooklyn but the conclusion’ that I saw must have irresistibly 
followed, and crowned the machinations of Dr. Hobart ; namely, 
that the call was rendered nugatory by the discovery and proof 
of my being unworthy of thestation. a ee 
Ifany should be disposed to enquire how I became acquainted 
with the circumstance of Mr. Wilmer’s being written to, in order 
Yo supercede me at Brooklyn? Panswer, by the interposition of 
that Divine Providence who is the protector of innocence and — 
the avenger of wrongs. ne CER Ria a+ 
-Atthe request of the Vestry of Swedesborough I had written 
to this very gentleman, Mr. Wilmer, inviting him’ to visit that 
Church with a view to succeed me. He accordingly accepted the in- 
vitation, and riding with him to visit some of the Congregation, he 
mentioned to me, that “he understood I had given up going to 
Brooklyn, and that he himself had -received but a little before 
he left home, a pressing invitation to visit New-York, with a view 
to settle at Brooklyn, and that he might count upon being suppor- — 
ted by the Clerey of the city.” Iexpressed my astonishment at 
this information, and instantly ‘enquired-who hadse written td 
him? To which he replied, that the Rev. Mr. Lyell had. ITre- 
quested copy of the letter ; but Mr. Wilmer took the alarm, and 
absolutely refused even shewing it. ralthy ahs (eae 
»Qn my arrival at’ Brooklyn, from the indisposition of my fami- 
ly; considerably renewed by the fatigue of moving—the depres- 
sion of mind, occasioned by leaving a numerous, pious and af> 
fectionate people—the cates of a new congregation, and above om 
the storm of unjust prejudice raised against me inthe city. and « 
among my Brethren by the misrepresentations of Dr. Hobart—my 
feelings can more readily be conceived than described. ~ But this 
simple, uncoloured statement stands in no need of on appeal to 
feelings. “eg oy 
As soon as I had leisure, I endeavoured to develope the plat 
formed against me}; but could obtain no satisfaction, nor could L 
learn why the Rev. Dr. Hobart, who had so solemnly pledged him- 
self to support the truth of the charges which he drew up against 
me,hadso suddenly desisted from his intended impos’ beieligyilndian 
being able to give any reason to the Bishop, or to these gentlemen 
whom he imposed on so far’as to obtain their signatures to those 
charges: Butas I was disposed to make every sacrifice for peace, 
as my conscience attested that I was clear of offence—and as I 
well persuaded, that however tardy in its progress, truth must im 
the end become triumphant, I submitted to the whole in silence. 
But I was. not yet to have rest. This opens anew and u 
of stene of persecution. ‘ eth gh 
_ 3. At my coming to Brooklyn, I brought with me the following 
Testimonials from the Church at Swedesborough,and from Bishop 
White of Philadelphia. 2% 48 7) 


9% 


‘The Wardens and Vestrymen of the Protestant Episcopal 
Church, ‘called Trinity ‘Church, at Swedesborongh, in the 
county of Gloucester, and State of New-Jersey—to all to 
whom these presents may come, respectfully send greeting : 
Whereas, the Rey. Henry J. Feltus having been Rector of 
oC for near six years, and being about to give up his 

‘astoral charge, here, and remove to Brooklyn, in the State 
_ of New-York; they feel it to be their duty; as well from 
Motives of justice, as gratitude, to certify, That during hié ‘ 
residence in this place, he has performed the several duties of 
Rector and Pastor of this Church to great satisfaction; that 
in the exercise of his Ministerial duties, in season, and out of 
season, he has been faithful, zealous, and evangelical: and 
with grateful pleasare we add, that through the divine blessing, — 
‘his labours amongst us have been successful ; that his conver= 
sation while here, both in public and in private, has, we believe, 
been consistent with the important and responsible character 
with which he-is clothed; that with respect to this Church and 
Congregation, we view his removal as a dispensation of Provi- 
dence, bearing a frowning aspect; but considering it in refetencé 
to the Church at large, and, the sovereign right of its supreme 
and adorable head, to direct all its concerns, and beheving that 
they will be so directed, that his glory, and the best interests of 
his Church will be promoted: We consent to the painful separa« 
tion, declaring, that this is done, on our part, towards him 
and his family,.in Christian love, fellowship,. and. affection. 
And we ptay God to make his life comfortable; ‘his labours 
eminently yseful, and his end happy. ee oth 


_ Dated the 91st of September, 1807... ia 
. Andrew. Hendricksony UY yr. ; 
Charles Lotky : Sn ge ' 
| Thomas Batiiny William Dyers is 
Fobn Daniels, ‘Damel England, “4 
Daniel Stanton, — — ~-- - David Wolf, r\ 
Petey Locks ~~~ William Denny, - \ 


- Santuel Block. * 


oes. 


Fobn Lock, Cptn. 
Philadeiphia, September’ 22; ¥807. | 
Although the Rev, Henry J. Feltus, late Rector of the Episcopal 
Church in Swedesborough, was not, in that character, under my 


superintendance ; yet his residénce having been not many milesfrom 
thiscity, I have had frequent opfiortuntites of, hearing of hs deport. 
{tue 18 og Svein : 


98 4 


mentand of the estimation in which he has. been held. In consequence of 
the above, J certify, That i. believe. his conduct to have been exene ell 
hlary, and his Ministry to have been useful. j | 
Witness my hand, ‘ 
WILLIAM WHITE, Bishop phe Protestant. | 

' Episcofial Church; \in the ‘ommontwealth of 

wee skeet Aa i ‘a 

y ara bd 


+ WR ey. 


These testimonials werevleft with Bishop- veal after they 
were shewn to the Vestry: at Brooklyn. Dr. Hobart read them. 
All was quiet till after the Convention ; when | was informed that 
a new attack was made on my reputation which required my prompt 
atten eo: that Dr. Hobart had roundly asserted to different persons, 
that Thad ferged the testimonials presented to the Bishop, ar 
that this was becoming a topic of general conversation. I infor: 

ed one of the gentlemen who told me, that it was in his power Ly 
be: completely satisfied on this point. I*gave him the names 

some of thememiliers of the Vestry at Swedesborough ; and-in- 
formed him he could ‘write to them, and they would inform: him 
whether these testimonials were forgery or not. Jetters were ac- 
cordingly written ; and the.documents sent in answer, .as soon as 
the Vestry of that Church could be convened, will be seen below. 

I am extremely sorry that Dr Hobart should not rather have had 
the candor to acknowledge and lament, that haste of temper that 
betrayed hii to such violence, than with equal boldness, when he 
could no longer maintain, his ground, declare that he had never 
said so. © 

He has called- this “ @ vile slander,” “a’base calumny,” 

Now, from the following depositions and documents it will wee 
_ (to use his own words) who is this vile slanderer, or who maniencch ae 
calumniator. 


2 


I do hereby Certify, That some time previous to o the insti- 
tution of the Rev. Mr. Feltus, in St. Ann’s Church, Brooklyn, — 
and while Mr. Ireland was yet in Orders, that Mr. Ireland 
told me Dr. Hobart ‘had:it in his power to prove Mr,’ ‘Feltus 
to be guilty of forgery; and that he was an impostor.  ‘Lhis 
charge Mr. Ireland told: me Dr. Hobart declared'to him. 

JOHN H. MOORE. 

Brooklysm, April»23, 1811. 

I have merely exhibited the above ; there are many that can be 
presented to the same purpose. Hee follows the deposition in full. 


All-whom it may concern are hereby certified, That ai 
the period of Rev. Mr. Feltus’s call to Brooklyn, certain re- 
ports, highly ‘prejudicial to the reputation of said Mr. F. were 
in circulation throughout, that xillages: Anxious to ascertain. 


a 


‘99 


*the real ‘character of the man who was: sto Be my suetessor 


and nearest neighbour, { called on Rev. Mr. Hobart, with 
whom those reports ‘were said to have originated, for the ex- 
press purpose of obtaining information. Mr. H without he- 
sitation assured- me, that Mr. F. was a disorderly, factious, 
dangerous man; regardless of all Episcopal authority, and 
calculated to do a world of mischief in the Church. On my - 
asking what he had done to authorize such an assurance, he 
told me that he had it in his power to prove Mr. F. guilty of 
having forged the testimonials which he had-brought from 
Swedesborough. I naturally remarked, that this was a-charge 
of.a most serious nature; and presumed that it must be under- 
stood with some qualifications’:- and I proceeded to state a cases 
which Mr. H. might conceive.to fall under the description of 
forgery, but which in a legal point of view might fall short 
of it. His reply was to this effect:—I peréectly understand 
the import of the term. employed by me; 4nd do positively 
assert, not only that Mr. F. wrote the testimonials which he 
has produced, but also, that he himself signed the names at- 
tached to them. I next enquired if the Bishop had been made 
acquainted with this black transaction; and was answered— 


that certainly he was, and was taking steps to prevent the set- 


tlement of such -c-ttle in his (the Bishop’s) Diocese. 

As I, at that time, supposed Mr. H. to be incapable of 
uttering a wilful falsehood, I not only yielded implicit credence 
to his assertions, but immediately on my return to Brooklyn, 
communicated them (as I conceived it my duty to-do) to cer- 
tain influential gentlemen there. A member of the Vestry, and 
one to whom I imparted the particulars above related, inform-— 
ed me that they had already heard of the charge; and had 
hoped as well as myself, that it would have — to be 
groundless. 

I have only to add, that from the unreserved manner in 
which Mr. H. made the foregoing communication to me, I 
inferred that he was desirous of giving it all necessary pub- 
licity ; and acted accordingly. 

Should it be necessary, I am willing and ready to make 
oath that the present statement is, as to substance, correct and 
‘true. Witness my hand, this 5th April, 1811. 

JNO. IRELAND. 


But lest the shadow of a7doubt should rest upon this subject, 
‘T shall now present the deposition of one with whom Mr. freland 
never conversed in his life, and whose reputation as a man of piety 
tand-candor is not te be exceeded by any is the State. 


, 


100 


‘The Rev.Dr. Hobart having drawn up asheet of 
impeaching, as I thought, the moral character of the 


Feltus, and meeting him at-messrs. Swords’s book store, i 


versed with him on the subject, and invited a trial 


charges preferred against him, assured him I should prove them 


to be totally false. 

Shortly after the above conversation, ‘Mr. Felts bowed +0 
Brooklyn, bringing with him ample Testimonials from the con- 
gregations of Swedesborough, and also from Bishop White of 
Philadelphia, which Dr.’ Hobart had seen and read, pe 
left for inspection with Bishop Moore: and meeting Dr. Ho- 


bart in Wall-street, I asked him if his opinion was not altered 
sow with respect to Mr. Feltus. He made me this reply: No ~ 


sir, I think worse of him now than before. I immediately 


asked, is there any new charge against him? to which he re- : 
plied, « Yes; I-charge him with forging his Testimonials from — 


the Church of Swedesborough.” Forgery sir, I replied, is a 
high crime, I cannot believeit. He answered, “They are his 
ewn hand writing: I have.compared them with his letters, and 
am satisfied.”’ [told him I should.write to Swedesborough on 
the subject, and if it was really so,-he would forfeit my friend- 
ship for ever. A-letter was accordingly wrote to the Church 


at Swedesborough: the answer, with a copy-of their minutes — 


from the Journal, are now to be seen, proving the ree fo 

be a false ‘and malicious slander. 
: GEORGE WARNER. 

The above will be-attested | 

- fo, a (om popege 


= 


Aad. that nothing may be: wanting to compel. conviction, that 


this daring assertion of Dr. Hobart’s, to use his own words, ed : 


base s/ander,”. here follow the documents that, were forward 
answer to the letters above alluded to,in orderto stop the influence 
of those wicked reports. 


George Hine roats : 
Dear Sir, “ned OT 
The Veeiry of Trinity Church, Swedesborough, having 
appointed Dr. James Stratton and myself, a committee, on the 7th 
September last, to draw uf a testimonial of respect, to be given to 
the Rector on his defiarture, and of his meritorious, conduct and 
SETUVICESy during his ministry amongst us—did accordingly chane 
and pfircsent the same, afier meeting the unanimous approbattor of the 
Vestry and Congregation, to the sqid Henry James Feltusy the even- 


— . ¢ ig oa 


Swédesborough, Nov. foe 180 iv 


. 
ae ee 


101 


tng prior’ to his taking leave of us; and deast' there inight be ant, 
suspicions of our separating sensations, heightening ihe language of 
" desert, ,we. have now rhongne mecessary to ith you the enslanee 
Fervifcate. { prin: 
: With much re specty ‘ibe ee 
Tam, dear Sir, — 
Your obedient, humble servant, 
RICHARD TITTERMARY. 


WV. B, Be aa enough to inform our mutual friend, H. J, Feltus, 
that Dr. James Stratton di dictated the testimonial of respect, handed 
him, ere lus departure from us, and firesented the same tome, which 
was cordially approved and sitned, and eopied by his friend, my son, 
Robert Tittermary. 


Fy, eu 
[Extract from ie bier ch Bok. ; 
/Swedesborough; Sept. 7, 1807. 

Resolved unanimously, That an honourable ‘Teicinohial be 
presented from this Board to the Rector, on his departure, ex~ 
pressive of our high approbation of ‘his conduct = Services, 
during his ministry in this Congregation. _- 

And resolved, That Richard ‘Tittermary, Esq aid Dr. James 
Stratton, or either of them, be a Permit to Etepate said 
Testimonial to be signed. 

By Order. Pests! 
DANIEL: ENGLAND. 


‘We the subscribers, heing appointed by the Vestry of this 
Church, a Committee to draw up a Testimonial of respect, to be 
presented to the Rector on his departure—Agreeable to the 
above resolution did prepare the same; and laid it before them 
on the Sabbath preceding his leaving us: who unanimously 
approved and signed the same; which was, by their desire, 
handed to said Rector by one of this Committee, on the even- 
ing before his departure; ere which, he neither saw nor knew 


any of its contents. 
RICHARD TITTERMARY. 


JAMES STRA’ I'TON. 
Swedesborough, Nov. 16, 1807. 


We, the undersigned Vestry and Congregation of Trinity 
Church, at Swedesborough, did most cordially approve and 

’ sign the Testimonial laid before us by the Committee appointed 
for that purpose, expressive of -our affection and high approba~ 

~ tion of the conduct.and services of the Rector hereof, during 


102 . 


his stay amongst us ; 3 and lest it might be premised chat the de 
of affection at our separation had dictated more than he me-— 
rited, we do hereby declare, that that ‘Testimonial of our res= 
pect and affection for the Rev. Henry J. Feltus, late Rector of 
this Church, was our real sentiments at the time a signing, 
and still continues so to be. 

Swedesborough, Nov. 16,, 1807. 


- RICHARD TITTERMARY, 2 
JAMES STRATTON, - : 


ANDW. HENDRICKSON, Warden. | ig 


THOMAS BATTEN, vege 
‘PETER LOCK, pee 
DANIEL ENGLAND, 
JOHN LOCK, Coz. 
~ DAVID WOLF, lai 
WILLIAM DYER, ; yy fia ie A 
SAMUEL - BLACK, + ate 
JOHN Lane) PEE Sone of the Yard. 


Let it be remembered, that Mr- Warner ae on Dr. Hobart, 
and shewed these papers to him, to confront bis accusation; thou 
Dr Hobart has since affected entire ignorance’ of the “subject, 
when charged with it. ; 

There is but one point more ‘that at present I shall notice, — 
namely : 

‘4. Dr. Hobart’s refusing to be reconciled.—But this was bare: 
might naturally be expected— 


Forgiveness to the injured. doth belong ; 
They never can forgive that do the wrong. 


- But I was hot disposed to withhold the trial.—Thad frequently con- 
versed with a number of pious and respectable gentlemen of ae 
ity Church, on the-subject; who expressed their earnest desire, that 
all matters,of difference between myself and Dr, 
beset at rest. Some of those gentlemen mentioned, that t 
had spoken to sae. Hebart.on the subject ;—others, that they had. 
doubt that an interview would be productive of a perfect recone 
ation.—My mind resisted the idea at first ; as ] was not 4 
of having wilfully offended Dr. Hobart in-any respect, I 
disposed (after being now two years in the Diocese) to su it the 
whole conduct of this gentleman, to the Bishop and) Breth- 
ren in Convocation, at the coming Convention. | In order, e- 
ver, to prevent confusion in the Church, Iwas willing in the. first 
place to try. the advice of our mutual friends, .in the sig be la per- 
sonal interview. 

I therefore, wrote to Dy Hobart, informing him, that I wished - 
to have some conyersation with him; that I should be happy 


4 * — 


} 


, 
by fash 
4% se 
Ps 
4 


103 


to-see him at the parsonage in Brooklyn ;.but he was at libertyto # 
suit his own convenience as to time and place Heinformed me . 
in return, that he would see me at his own heuse in Greenwich-—- 
Street, and appointed the hour. I attended accordingly at the time, 
with a full determination that nothing should be wanting on my 
part, to a cordial and Christian reconciliation But 1 was much 
mistaken to suppose this possible. : 

After some circuitous conversation, I introduced the subject, the 
particular busioess of theinterview. Dr. Hobart immediately be- 
came Warm,and said severai severe things in a general way; among 
others, he spoke in a supercilious manner of gentlemen entering or 
wishing toenter the Churci, without proper qualifications.— W hat 
he bad in view 1 could not conceive, but supposing he intended 
the application for me, 1 informed him that the period in which I 
entered, was an honourable period; when no dispensing power 
Whatever was permitted to exist, with the Standing Committees, 
nor even with the Bishops themselves ; that I had sustained a lite- 
rary examination, and that I had no doubt the learned gentlemen 
in Philadelphia who were my examiners, had performed their du- 
ty fuitufully To this he replied, I have understood so, but how 
far? to which I answered : as far as they theught proper,—till 
they were satisfied :—they were not limited, and | presumed they 
were the most competent judges —I now conceived that the gen- 
tleman intended insult, and informed him that.my object was peace 5 
that this interview was at the desire of many of our mutual friends 
of his own congregation ; and more, that it was my sincere de- 
sire, that whatever cause of difference subsisted between us might 
be cleared up or buried in oblivion ; thet 1 was not conscious of 
having offended any man ; that if he had any thing against me, 
he ought to point it out and prove it, and be at rest, that we might 
live in friendship as Brethren and as. Christians. 

To all this his general answer was, ‘ that he knew all those 
gentlemen to whom I had reference ; that they had spoken to 
him on the subject ; that they were not to dictate to him ; and that 
he conceived himself at liberty to practice what deportment he 
thought proper to any of the Clergy. . ee: ye 

This was the result of the interview, the only fruit of my ° 
proposals for peace: And frem this time as before,not only has bis de- 
portment towards me been,as opportunity offered, equally intolerant 
and persecuting; but he has insulted and persecuted others because 
they would not, they could not; joim with him in his unrighteous 
conduct. Mr. Jones has been cruelly abused on my account 
both by Dr. Hobart and Mr. How, particularly for changing pul-. f 
pits with me. This was high treason against Dr. Hobart ; because 
by a measure of this kind the general prejudice against me, created 
by the misrepresentations of the Rev. gentlemen, were in danger 
of being removed.—But I shall desist for the present. 

From the foregoing plain statement,it will sufficiently appear to- 
every candid mind, that the points proposed at the opening of this 
paper are fairly established. I have added long suffering to RY, 
patience. My conscience tells me that I have done all thatas a man). f 


that'as a Christian, that as a minister of Christ I ought t 
could be expected to do, for the sake of peace 5 and more. 
than was my duty to have done. Dr. Hobart had it in his p 
I had subdued my feelings so far as to wait on him.to bave prever 
ted these things coming against him ; but as he had advane 
far in persecution, he found it easier to go on with the prospect 
driving me from the Diocese (especially as he ha . How 
to assist him) than with the honesty“of a gentleman, wi candor 
and piety of a Christian to retrace his steps, and to acknowle a 
his mistakes. In this, however, he has only. beens u ‘' 
deceiving himself: I am not to be shaken by his lerrors. : x. 
Let my Brethreh in the Ministry, for whose i t “eae \ 
sively this uncoloured statement is drawn up, e that eT 
the oppression of an individual leads to the. oppression of 
Clergyman in theState.—I feel that I am supparting their indepen 
dence as well as my own. by exposing those plain truths against the — 
violence of Dr. Hobart. WhenI look turough the Diocese, 
and beheld ome of the most respectable situations, requiring age 
and experience, instantly filled up with young oor lie 
tering the M stry 5 ; while learning and talents; and a or ren ae 
: t in the back ground, and their influence cramped aa 
oat y the narrowness of their situations +—W hen - ip 
that as.sdon as a vacancy offers in city or country; itis 
seized on 5 so that ‘the people can scarcely be said to have maak: ; 
-, fromthe maisrepresentations that are let loose homey | 
the overrating and extravagant praise that are poured:forth in fa~ 
vour of others; (and all this, for what purpose -is 2ow but too ae 
evident to be mistaken) I-cannot but hope that the good sense of. 
my Brethren will refuse their supportto the principal instruments + 
of this shameful system of favouritism and proscription.— mat oo 
T cannot but hope, and pray God, that if the mitre must be. a 


ABr 


shared with that venerable head that now supports it, itmay rest 
upon a man of a peaceable and quict disposition, a pious and hum» 
ble mind, 2 nzan deeply sensible of oluntary failings of oie sc) 
man nature in himself, and alive {6° e devotions and to 

the quiet and the ‘aimee of his Brethren. ié a ee +h 


HENRY J. FELTUS. | ur. 
Brooklyn, May Ist, 1811. face ge Kc) 


P. S,-That-there may be no appearance of ghee in relation toMr. Blachd 
F think it but justice to say, that in a late conversation with him, he informed mé 
that le he said to Afr. Lyell, as mentioned in Mr. Jones? statement, page 635 
trence-to a private conversation wrth me, at a different period to thet alluded 
ea tn my note to Dr: Moore; which, till he mentioned it, Patt escaped my 
recollection. And though £ cannot remember that conversation to hate been*other 
than in general terms, yet ay opinion of Mr, Blackburn's SinCETILiy. ‘teil not: 
permit me to contradict him upon {such slight grounds, £ knew not Mr, Jones’ 
objections, dnd have only to admire my sudden rise of credit with gentlemen, 
that the mere hearsayrof a hearsay of a suspicion of 4 personal pigne, (though. 


tiney mew the’ objections) should Be made use of aginst Mr. Jones! 4 
’ EA J) FELTUS, ee 


ap 


Dat 


Library Bureau Cat. no, 1137 


Sch. R. 283 J76S P34E 55 


SCHOOL OF RELIGION 


_ win 


-6£806S20 


4 + ee _ 


